Digital Sticky Note Connection Ordering by Selection Sequence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient method to rearrange the order of digital sticky notes and connecting lines in a user-friendly manner without requiring deletion or reapplication of lines, which can lead to decreased viewability and complexity.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that allows users to change the connection order of digital sticky notes by receiving tracing inputs or selecting start and end points, adjusting the order of connecting lines based on user selection, and optionally rearranging the positions of the notes to maintain clarity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users delete and reapply connecting lines to rearrange sticky notes, then the connection order can be changed, but the operation complexity increases and viewability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rearrangement operation into two independent parts: selecting multiple sticky notes and dragging them to a new position. The connecting lines are automatically reconfigured based on the new positions without requiring user intervention. This segmentation eliminates the need to manually delete and reapply connecting lines, reducing operation complexity while maintaining ease of rearrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically updating the connecting lines and their directions when sticky notes are rearranged. Instead of requiring users to manually manage the connecting lines, the system autonomously adapts the line configurations to match the new note positions, thereby reducing operational steps and maintaining clarity.
2Productivity
If connecting lines are deleted and reapplication is required, then order can be changed, but time is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-configuring the connecting lines to automatically update when sticky notes are moved. The connecting logic is established in advance, so when rearrangement occurs, the lines instantly adapt without requiring deletion or reapplication. This preliminary setup eliminates time-consuming manual operations and improves rearrangement efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting lines maintain continuous functionality throughout the rearrangement process. Instead of interrupting the workflow by requiring deletion and reapplication, the system ensures the connecting action remains continuous and adaptive, allowing users to rearrange notes without time loss while maintaining the integrity of the connections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple connecting lines are present between objects, then connection flexibility increases, but viewability and clarity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional approach by having the connecting lines adapt to the sticky notes rather than having notes adapt to fixed lines. When notes are rearranged, the lines automatically reconfigure their paths and directions, maintaining flexibility while avoiding overlapping and clutter. This inversion ensures viewability is preserved while connection flexibility remains intact.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes at least one processor. The processor displays a plurality of objects and a connecting line on a display, the connecting line defining a connection order of the objects as a direction and connecting the objects one to one; receives selection of two or more objects among the plurality of objects; obtains a selection order in which the two or more objects are selected, and controls display of a direction of the connecting line based on the obtained selection order of the two or more objects among the displayed plurality of objects.