Context Menu Command Line Prompt for Custom Application Launch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Icon-driven computer interfaces lack the ability to allow operators to enter command line parameters, requiring users to navigate the file structure for text-based entry, which is inefficient and limits customization options for sophisticated users.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a command line prompt within the context menu of an icon-based interface, enabling operators to enter textual parameter data directly for controlling application execution, thereby allowing for customizable launch parameters without the need for full path entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional icon-based interface is used, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because operators cannot enter custom command parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the icon-based graphical interface with command line parameter entry capabilities by incorporating an editable text field directly into the context menu. This allows users to combine the visual simplicity of icon clicking with the customization power of command line parameters, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The context menu is enhanced to serve multiple functions: it provides both the traditional graphical command options and a command line interface for custom parameters. This multi-functional approach allows the same interface element to cater to both casual users (using graphical commands) and sophisticated users (using custom parameters), thereby improving both ease of operation and adaptability
2Adaptability or versatility
If command parameters are entered via traditional text-based prompt, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases due to file structure navigation overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically populating the command line field with the application's executable path and default parameters. Users only need to edit or append to this pre-filled information rather than typing the entire command from scratch, significantly reducing the time required to enter custom parameters while maintaining full adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The context menu acts as an intermediary between the file system and the user. Instead of requiring users to navigate the file structure to find applications, the menu provides direct access to application icons with an integrated command line field, eliminating the time-consuming file navigation step while still allowing full command parameter input
3Ease of operation
If a limited context menu is provided, then ease of operation is improved, but adaptability deteriorates because sophisticated users cannot enter custom parameters
Solution Approach 1:
The context menu is made dynamic by incorporating an editable text field that can accommodate both predefined menu options and custom user input. The menu structure adapts to user needs: casual users can select from graphical commands, while sophisticated users can enter custom parameters, making the interface flexible and adaptable without sacrificing ease of operation
Data Source
AI summary
In an icon-based computer interface, a context menu includes a command line prompt for entry of textual parameter data for application programs. Computer operators may enter textual parameter data for the application via the command line prompt and launch the application corresponding to the icon in a manner that is determined by the parameter data.