Terminal Shortcut Window for Application Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for switching between screens on a terminal, such as from a game application to another application like WeChat, are complex and cumbersome, requiring users to return to the desktop and navigate through multiple screens.

Innovation Solution

A screen display method that detects triggering events to display a shortcut window on the current screen, allowing users to directly access applications, contacts, settings, or documents by selecting objects within the window, which can include icons or screenshots of frequently used applications, and automatically adjusts the window's size and content based on usage patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If the user follows the traditional method to switch from a game application to another application (return to desktop, find application icon, select icon), then the user can access the target application, but the operation process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveApplication switching operationVSAvoidTime to switch applications
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the application switching process by introducing a shortcut window that separates frequently used applications from the full desktop environment. Users can access these segmented shortcuts directly from the current application without returning to the complete desktop, thus simplifying the switching path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-arranging frequently used applications in a shortcut window that is easily accessible from any current screen. This preliminary organization allows users to switch applications directly without needing to navigate through the entire desktop each time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If the desktop displays all installed applications, then users have access to all applications, but the desktop becomes cluttered and harder to navigate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveApplication accessibilityVSAvoidDesktop navigation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides applications into two segments: frequently used applications displayed in the shortcut window, and all other applications remaining on the desktop. This segmentation allows the desktop to remain uncluttered while maintaining access to all applications through the organized shortcut interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The shortcut window provides a localized, simplified view of frequently used applications with distinct visual characteristics. This local quality enhancement makes the shortcut area easier to navigate and select from, while the rest of the desktop maintains its comprehensive application display.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Adaptability or versatility

If the shortcut window displays many application objects, then users have more quick access options, but the window becomes more complex and harder to manage

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQuick access optionsVSAvoidShortcut window structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a hierarchical dimension to the shortcut window structure, organizing applications in a structured layout that adds visual separation and categorization. This dimensional organization allows multiple applications to be displayed without increasing perceived complexity, as users can navigate the structured arrangement intuitively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS11442600B2Screen display method and terminal
Publication Date: 2022.09.13 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US11442600B2 patent drawing
  • US11442600B2 patent drawing
  • US11442600B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments includes a screen display method and a terminal. The method includes a terminal displaying a first screen, detecting a first triggering event, responding to the first triggering event, and displaying a shortcut window on the first screen. The shortcut window includes at least one object. Each object is associated with one element. The method further includes displaying a screen of an element associated with the at least one object after detecting that the at least one object in the shortcut window is selected.