Dynamic UI Control Redirection to Wearables for Multi-User Contexts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic devices with wireless communication capabilities face challenges in user interface control access when content is redirected from a primary device to a secondary device with a larger display, leading to difficulties in managing multiple applications simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method where processors in an electronic device detect communication with both a content presentation companion device and a wearable companion device, allowing for the dynamic redirection of user interface controls from the primary device's display to the wearable device's user interface, enabling multiple users to operate different applications concurrently without interfering with each other.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If content is redirected from a primary device to a secondary device with a larger display, then content viewing quality is improved, but user interface control access deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the user interface controls from the content display by redirecting controls to a wearable device while content displays on a companion device. This separation allows high-quality content rendering on the larger display while maintaining accessible controls on the wearable device that the user is physically manipulating.
Solution Approach 2:
The wearable electronic device acts as an intermediary between the user and the content presentation system. It receives control inputs from the user and transmits them to the electronic device, enabling control access without requiring direct interaction with the primary device's display.
2Productivity
If multiple applications operate simultaneously on the same device, then multitasking capability is improved, but user interface control conflict worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control interfaces for different applications by redirecting controls for the first application to the wearable device while the second application uses the primary device's display. This segmentation eliminates control conflicts by providing separate control pathways for concurrent applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to control access by utilizing the wearable device as a separate control interface. This dimensional separation allows multiple applications to operate simultaneously with distinct control surfaces, preventing interference between them.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for an electronic device includes detecting, by one or more processors, a first user operating a first application on the electronic device presenting content on a companion electronic device operating as a primary display for the electronic device while the electronic device is electronically in communication with a smartwatch. The method then redirects one or more first application controls to a user interface of the smartwatch when a second user is physically manipulating the electronic device and operating a second application presenting content on a local display of the electronic device while both the first application and the second application are operating on the electronic device.