Scanning Probe Microscope Data Display with Preliminary Image Zapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of scanning probe microscopes face cumbersome operations when trying to display multiple measurement data sets as images, requiring frequent switching between screens and difficulty in distinguishing edited from original data sets, especially when many data sets have similar appearances.
Innovation Solution
A data display processing device that allows users to easily view multiple measurement data sets by generating preliminary images of other data sets within the same group, enabling 'zapping' between them with minimal screen switching and providing additional information for identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users explicitly specify multiple measurement data sets by individually selecting each thumbnail or performing batch selection, then multiple data sets can be displayed, but the user must frequently switch between the data selection screen and the data display screen, which is troublesome and tiring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data selection screen and data display screen into a single integrated display. The measurement data set list and thumbnail images are displayed together with the detailed image in a unified interface, allowing users to select data sets and view images without switching screens. This resolves the contradiction by combining previously separate functions into one cohesive display environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new spatial dimension to the display by showing the measurement data set list in a different arrangement (e.g., split screen or integrated panel) alongside the thumbnail images. This dimensional reorganization allows simultaneous access to both selection and display functions, eliminating the need for screen switching while maintaining all necessary information visible to the user.
2Quantity of substance
If a large number of measurement data sets are included in a group, then comprehensive data coverage is achieved, but it becomes difficult to distinguish a desired measurement data set based on thumbnail appearance alone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement data set list into multiple pages or sections, allowing users to navigate through large numbers of data sets in manageable chunks. This segmentation prevents information overload and makes it easier to locate desired data sets by dividing the comprehensive list into organized, navigable units with clear indicators of position and content.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms such as highlighting selected items, showing preview thumbnails, and providing visual indicators when hovering over data set entries. This immediate feedback helps users identify and confirm the desired measurement data set quickly, reducing the difficulty of detection even when many data sets are present in the group.
3Loss of information
If all measurement data sets are displayed in the data display screen at once, then complete overview is provided, but the user must perform operations to specify additional data sets, causing the same frequent switching problem
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-loading and displaying thumbnails of multiple measurement data sets in the integrated view. This preliminary display of available data sets allows users to see what is already loaded and easily select additional ones without requiring separate specification operations or screen switches, making the process of viewing all data sets more efficient.
Data Source
AI summary
A data display processing device for a scanning probe microscope includes: a group information storage unit for managing and storing a plurality of measurement data sets; specified data acquisition means for acquiring, from the storage unit, a specified measurement data set; display controlling means for displaying the specified data set as an image; preliminary image generation means for, triggered by determination of the specified data set, acquiring other measurement data set or sets belonging to a group including the specified data set from the group information storage unit, and generating a preliminary image which is an image or images which will be used when displaying the other measurement data set or sets; and first display switching means for switching to display the preliminary image within a predetermined region in response to a first predetermined input operation by the user performed while the specified data set is displayed.