Dynamic Z-Order Assignment for Multi-User Interface Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-user graphical user interfaces with multi-touch displays, existing z-ordering methods can obstruct functionalities like drag-and-drop actions due to automatic assignment of top z-order to the most-recently activated user interface element, leading to potential overlaps and obstructions.
Innovation Solution
A method of dynamically assigning z-order to user interface elements based on their interaction states, where elements are moved to different predetermined positions within the z-ordering based on whether they are being initiated, moved, or ceased to be interacted with, ensuring proper layering and preventing overlaps during interactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the most-recently activated user interface element is automatically assigned top z-order, then the activation state is clearly indicated, but drag-and-drop operations are obstructed when elements overlap
Solution Approach 1:
The z-order of user interface elements is made dynamic rather than static. When a drag operation is detected, the system automatically adjusts the z-order to place the dragged element on top, ensuring it remains visible and interactive. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by adapting the z-order assignment based on the current interaction state, allowing both clear indication of activation and seamless drag-and-drop operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple user interface elements are displayed simultaneously, then multi-user interaction is enabled, but overlaps occur that obstruct user interaction
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts z-order based on interaction state. When an element is being actively manipulated (dragged, selected, or edited), its z-order is automatically raised to ensure it remains accessible and visible above other elements. This dynamic behavior enables smooth multi-user interaction by preventing obstructions during active operations while maintaining the ability to display multiple elements simultaneously.
3Device complexity
If z-order is assigned based on activation timing, then element hierarchy is determined, but drag-and-drop functionality is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The z-order assignment mechanism becomes dynamic by detecting drag operations and automatically adjusting element hierarchy during interaction. Instead of maintaining a fixed activation-based z-order, the system temporarily reassigns z-order to place the dragged element on top, enabling seamless drag-and-drop operations while preserving the underlying activation-based hierarchy when not in drag mode.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments related to assigning z-order to a plurality of user interface elements are disclosed. One disclosed embodiment provides a method of assigning a z-ordering to a user interface element displayed on a multi-user interactive display based upon an interaction state of the user interface element, the interaction state being dependent upon how a user interacts with the user interface element. The method comprises detecting a change in the interaction state of the user interface element. If the change is an initiation of a movement of the user interface element on the display, the user interface element is moved to a first predetermined position within the z-ordering. If the change is an initiation of a user interaction with content contained within the user interface element, the user interface element is moved to a second predetermined position within the z-ordering.