Smart Device Application Switching via Motion Sensors

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Solution Overview

Problem

Smart devices, such as smartphones and tablets, are limited in their ability to switch between multiple applications quickly, as they typically require users to physically interact with the screen or multiple buttons to access different apps, unlike desktop computers which can easily switch between multiple documents or programs with a single click.

Innovation Solution

A smart device equipped with a controller and sensing devices, such as a gyroscope or accelerometer, that detects orientation and flicking motions in a three-dimensional space, allowing seamless switching between applications by associating specific applications with predefined orientations and motions, enabling users to switch apps without touching the screen or using multiple buttons.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a smart device displays only one application at a time, then the device maintains simple display control, but the user cannot view or switch between multiple applications quickly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication switching speedVSAvoidphysical interaction requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical button pressing and touch screen interaction with motion-based control using gyroscopes and accelerometers. Users switch applications by physically moving the device in specific orientations or flicking motions, substituting manual screen interaction with spatial gestures detected by motion sensors.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic motion detection capabilities that recognize different device orientations and flicking patterns to trigger application switching. The system dynamically responds to real-time device movement rather than requiring static button presses, enabling faster and more intuitive application transitions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a smart device requires multiple buttons or touch screen interactions to switch applications, then the device maintains simple hardware design, but the switching process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication switching easeVSAvoidtime to switch applications
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces sequential button pressing and touch interactions with simultaneous motion-based gestures. A single flicking motion or orientation change triggers application switching, eliminating the need for multiple discrete physical actions and significantly reducing the time required to switch between applications.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If a smart device lacks split screen or multi-application viewing capabilities, then the device maintains simple display management, but the user cannot access multiple applications simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-application access capabilityVSAvoiddisplay control complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses dynamic motion detection to enable flexible application switching and potential split-screen functionality. Different device orientations and flicking patterns can trigger different application display modes, allowing users to access multiple applications simultaneously through intuitive spatial gestures without complex display control interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables easy and quick access to multiple applications by rotating or flicking the device, eliminating the need for manual screen interaction, thereby enhancing user experience and efficiency in multitasking.

Implementation Method 1

The at least one sensing device may be configured to detect at least one of an orientation and a flicking motion of the smart device in the three-dimensional space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOrientation detection: Accelerometer

Implementation Method 2

The at least one sensing device may be configured to detect at least one of an orientation and a flicking motion of the smart device in the three-dimensional space

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMotion detection: Accelerometer

Data Source

PatentUS10955928B2Application swap based on smart device movement
Publication Date: 2021.03.23 NAGRAVISION SA
  • US10955928B2 patent drawing
  • US10955928B2 patent drawing
  • US10955928B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A smart device capable of switching between at least two applications based on the position of the smart device and a method of doing the same is provided.