Touchscreen Time Bar Interface for Efficient Range Input
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for entering parameter ranges on small screen devices, such as time ranges, are not well-suited for touch-sensitive displays and are inefficient for user input.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for receiving user input of time ranges on a touchscreen device, involving a time bar with start and stop regions, where users can input time ranges by sliding their finger or stylus to select start and end times, with the device identifying and displaying the selected time ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If text input fields are used for entering time ranges, then the input method is simple to implement, but the ease of operation deteriorates on small screen devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional text-based mechanical input with a graphical touch interface. Users interact with a visual time bar representation by touching and sliding their finger or stylus along the bar to select time ranges, eliminating the need for keyboard typing or complex text input operations on small screens.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the one-dimensional text input concept into a two-dimensional graphical interface. The time bar provides a visual spatial representation where position along the bar corresponds to time values, allowing users to select time ranges by spatial interaction rather than textual entry.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional time grid interfaces are used, then parameter range entry is supported, but the device complexity increases and usability decreases on mobile devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of time range selection from the complex traditional time grid interface. By isolating the core interaction to a simple linear time bar without multiple rows, columns, and grid lines, the interface maintains parameter range entry capability while dramatically reducing visual complexity and improving mobile usability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the time selection task into distinct interactive regions: a start region for selecting the beginning time and a stop region for selecting the end time. This segmentation allows users to complete time range entry through two simple sequential actions rather than navigating complex grid structures.
3Area of stationary object
If bar format display is used for time ranges, then small screen adaptation is improved, but the ease of operation for entering time ranges deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the time bar automatically detects and processes touch gestures. The system identifies touch locations, calculates corresponding time values, and generates time range data without requiring additional user actions or complex input procedures, making the compact display format equally easy to use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates real-time visual feedback during the time range selection process. As users slide their finger along the time bar, the interface provides visual indicators showing the selected time range, allowing users to see their input being formed and make adjustments if needed before finalizing the selection.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods and systems for receiving the input of parameter ranges for computer applications, adapted to the use of small screen input devices. In one embodiment, a method is disclosed for accepting a time range into a computing device equipped with a touchscreen by entering a pair of time markers. The method includes displaying on the touchscreen a time bar having a start pad and a stop region. The device receives a first input starting at the start pad and ending at a first location on the time bar and receives a second input starting at the stop region and ending at a second location. The device displays time markers at the first and second locations. The device identifies first and second times corresponding to the first and second locations. The device identifies and displays a time range based on the first and second times.