Vehicle Computer System Window Management via Character Strings

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing computer systems in vehicles face challenges in providing simple, clear, and reliable operation of multiple functionalities, especially concerning safety aspects due to increased complexity and potential misuse.

Innovation Solution

A method utilizing character strings, specifically Uniform Resource Identifiers (URIs) and Uniform Resource Locators (URLs), to control and manage application windows and programs, enabling flexible control, secure operation, and user-friendly interface management through detection of user inputs and gestures, with features like sandboxing for memory access control and persistence of application states.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functionalities are integrated into the same device, then the versatility and capabilities of the computer system are improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of clear display and simple operation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The display area is segmented into multiple independent application windows, each representing a separate functionality or task. These windows can be independently controlled, moved, resized, and managed, allowing multiple functions to coexist without interfering with each other's operation clarity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a spatial dimension to function management by arranging multiple application windows in different positions and layers on the display. This allows users to navigate and manage multiple functionalities through spatial arrangement rather than complex hierarchical menus, simplifying operation.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple functionalities are integrated into the same device, then the versatility and capabilities of the computer system are improved, but the clarity of display and simplicity of operation become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovefunctionalityVSAvoidoperation simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A universal window management system is implemented that provides consistent control mechanisms (move, resize, minimize, maximize, close) for all application windows regardless of their specific function. This unified approach simplifies operation by providing predictable, consistent interactions across diverse functionalities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The window manager acts as an intermediary between the user and multiple application programs. It provides a standardized interface for controlling different applications through window operations, abstracting away the complexity of individual application controls and simplifying user interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If application windows are arranged hierarchically with sub-windows, then the organization and management of multiple functions are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveorganizationVSAvoidwindow management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a nesting structure where sub-windows can be created within parent application windows, allowing hierarchical organization of related functions. This enables logical grouping of tasks while maintaining the flexibility of independent window management at each level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentEP3163425B1Method for operating a computer system
Publication Date: 2019.02.27 VOLKSWAGEN AG
  • EP3163425B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3163425B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~4B
  • EP3163425B1 patent drawingFigure 4B

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for operating a computer system, particularly in a vehicle (1), in which graphic data is generated and output by a display and at least one character string is captured. Based on this at least one character string, an instruction for an application program is generated and executed, the instruction relating to a specific program state of the application program. Furthermore, based on the character string, an application window (8, 8a, 8b, 8c) is created within the display, which has window properties and is associated with the application program. The application window (8, 8a, 8b, 8c) is generated depending on the program state of the application program, and a new character string is generated based on the application window (8, 8a, 8b, 8c) and the application program.