Split Screen Application Switching via Segmented Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mobile terminal technologies lack an efficient method for switching applications in split screen mode, making it cumbersome for users to select and switch between multiple applications simultaneously.

Innovation Solution

A method and device that allow users to select a target display area and then choose a target application within that area, enabling simple switching between applications by receiving selection instructions and displaying relevant applications for easy selection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional application switching methods are used in split screen mode, then users can switch between applications, but the operation becomes cumbersome and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication switching operationVSAvoidtime for switching applications
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the application switching process into distinct phases: first selecting the target display area, then selecting the target application within that area. This segmentation allows users to switch applications in a structured, intuitive manner rather than dealing with a complex unified selection process, directly improving ease of operation while reducing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary action by first receiving the selection instruction for the target display area before presenting the list of applications to be switched. This preliminary selection of the display area contextually narrows down the application choices, making the subsequent application selection faster and easier, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and time efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple applications are displayed for switching, then users can choose from more options, but the selection process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication selection optionsVSAvoidselection interface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by customizing the application display based on the selected target display area. Different display areas may show different sets of applications or different organization methods, allowing the interface to adapt to local context rather than presenting a uniform complex list everywhere, thus providing versatility without increasing overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the application list display into multiple stages: first showing applications relevant to the selected display area, then allowing selection from that filtered set. This segmentation reduces the perceived complexity by breaking down the large selection task into smaller, more manageable steps, while still providing access to multiple application options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10917515B2Method for switching applications in split screen mode, computer device and computer-readable storage medium
Publication Date: 2021.02.09 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • US10917515B2 patent drawing
  • US10917515B2 patent drawing
  • US10917515B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, device for switching applications in the split screen mode, and a related device are provided. The method for switching applications in the split screen mode includes: a first selection instruction is received when the split screen mode of a terminal screen is activated by showing a number of display areas, the first selection instruction being configured to select a target display area from the display areas; one or more applications to be switched in the target display area is displayed in response to a receiving of a switching instruction of applications; a second selection instruction is received, the second selection instruction being configured to select a target application from the one or more applications to be switched; and an application displayed in the target display area is switched to the target application.