Apple Files Patent For Gesture-Based Communication Using Physics Metaphors

Apple has filed a new patent for intuitive, gesture-based communications using Physics metaphors.

"A user can make an intuitive, physical gesture with a first device, which can be detected by one or more onboard motion sensors. The detected motion triggers an animation having a "physics metaphor," where the object appears to react to forces in a real world, physical environment. The first device detects the presence of a second device and a communication link is established allowing a transfer of data represented by the object to the second device. During the transfer, the first device can animate the object to simulate the object leaving the first device and the second device can animate the object to simulate the object entering the second device. In some implementations, in response to an intuitive, gesture made on a touch sensitive surface of a first device or by physically moving the device, an object can be transferred or broadcast to other devices or a network resource based on a direction, velocity or speed of the gesture. "

An example of this might be the action of 'pouring' files from your iPhone to your iPad. Apple would detect the pouring gesture made with your iPhone and then detect the proximity of your iPad. An animation would appear on iPhone showing the file being 'poured' out and an animation would appear on your iPad showing the file enter the device.


Apple outlines other gestures such as a swipe or flick on the iPad to send files to other devices nearby. Another example was rotational 'Frisbee' gesture to initiate broadcasting.

Read More [via PatentlyApple]