Apple Receives Design Patents for Page Turning Animation and iPad Smart Case

Among the number of patents that were awarded to Apple on Tuesday, are two design patents for the page-turning animation used in iOS apps like iBooks, and for the third-generation iPad’s full-body case.

AppleInsider:

The page turning animation IP was first filed for in December 2011 as an ornamental design for a display screen. Much like other Apple design patents, the basic line drawing is adequate enough to get the basic feel for the animation. Users can interact with graphical elements closely resembling a piece of paper, using a finger to slowly curl the page over, or quickly turn the page with a swiping motion. The animation even allows for users to move their finger vertically, revealing the top or bottom portion of the next page much like a real binded book.

A number of Apple’s apps have begun using the “page curling” animation, including Maps and Calendar for iPad.

The second design patent awarded to Apple was for the iPad Smart Case. Like the original Smart Cover, the Smart Case turns the iPad on and off with magnetic sensors in the iPads interacting with magnets it has embedded in the top cover. It also adds an extra layer of protection for the tablet’s chassis.