Dynamic PDF Layer Control via Embedded Trigger Scripts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PDF documents lack dynamic display capabilities to show or hide content based on specific criteria such as location, time, and access control, limiting their customization and management efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method for dynamically displaying PDF documents by embedding scripts that evaluate triggers like location, time, and access policies, allowing layers to be shown or hidden based on predetermined criteria, using a stand-alone application or plug-in module to generate and embed scripts in PDF documents, which can be processed by standard PDF readers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple PDF documents are maintained to serve different audiences and locations, then content customization and reach are improved, but document management complexity and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments content into separate layers within a single PDF document, where each layer corresponds to different content types (e.g., location-based content, time-based content, advertising content). This allows the document to be customized for different audiences without creating separate PDF files, thereby reducing management complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal PDF document structure that can serve multiple functions and audiences simultaneously through embedded layers. A single document can display different content based on location, time, and user preferences, eliminating the need for multiple specialized documents and simplifying management.
2Adaptability or versatility
If location-based content layers are embedded in PDF documents, then reach to diverse audiences is improved, but document size and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent embeds location-based content layers nested within the existing PDF document structure. These layers are contained within the document's layer hierarchy and only become visible when triggered by location criteria, minimizing the impact on overall document size while enabling diverse content delivery.
3Adaptability or versatility
If time-based dynamic display is implemented, then content freshness and control are improved, but script processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements time-based control by pre-setting trigger conditions and display parameters in the PDF layers before the document is viewed. The script automatically evaluates time criteria and activates or deactivates layers based on predetermined time thresholds, reducing the need for complex real-time processing while maintaining content freshness and control.
4Ease of operation
If advertising layers are made optional and controllable, then user choice and satisfaction are improved, but document structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes advertising layers dynamic and optional by embedding trigger conditions that allow users to control their visibility. The layers can be activated or deactivated based on user preferences, location, or time criteria, providing ease of operation while maintaining a manageable document structure through standardized layer organization.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for dynamic display of at least one layer in a PDF document, comprising the steps of setting at least one criterion for at least one property of a trigger to change a display state of the at least one layer of the PDF document to another display state of the at least one layer of the PDF document, creating a script that can be processed by a PDF document reader and that contains the at least one criterion for the at least one property of the trigger, and embedding the script in the PDF document, wherein when the PDF document is opened by the PDF document reader, the script causes evaluation of the at least one property for the trigger, and if the at least one criterion for the at least one property of the trigger is met, then the script causes a change of the display state of the at least one layer of the PDF document.