External Application Extension UI with Non-Intrusive Icon Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extension functions for external applications interfere with the original behavior of the applications and user operations, necessitating a solution that allows for intuitive and non-intrusive integration of additional features.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus with a controller that adjusts the display position of extended menu and function icons on the application window, ensuring they do not obstruct the user's interaction with the main application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If extension functions are provided to external applications, then functionality and versatility are improved, but interference with original application behavior and user operations occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension for UI elements by allowing icons to be positioned at coordinates outside the standard application window boundaries. The controller displays icons at positions in a coordinate system that extends beyond the application window, enabling extension functions to coexist with the original application without overlapping or interfering with its interface elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating distinct spatial zones: the application window area maintains its original characteristics while the extended area outside the window provides additional functionality. Each zone has different properties - the application window preserves original behavior while the extended zone accommodates new icons without affecting the application's native interface.
2Ease of operation
If extension icons are displayed on the application window, then ease of operation is improved, but visual obstruction and interference with user interaction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the display space by utilizing coordinates outside the application window boundaries. Icons are positioned in this extended dimensional space, making them accessible to users while ensuring they do not visually obstruct or interfere with the application content within the original window area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a copied or replicated interface space outside the application window. Extension icons are displayed in this copied space, which mirrors the coordinate system but exists independently from the application window, allowing users to access extension functions without the icons appearing within or obstructing the application's native interface.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extension functions are integrated into the application, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display space into distinct regions: the application window area and the extended area outside it. This segmentation allows extension functions to be added without integrating them into the application's internal structure, maintaining clear separation between the original application and extension components, thereby reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary controller that manages the display of extension icons outside the application window. This intermediary component mediates between the application and the extension functions, handling positioning and display logic without requiring the application itself to become more complex. The controller acts as a bridge that adds functionality while isolating complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
To provide an extension function that permits more intuitive operations without interfering with the behavior of an external application. There is provided an information processing apparatus that includes a controller configured to control functional extension of an external application. The controller causes an extended menu icon whose display position is adjustable to be superimposed and displayed on a display window of the external application, and controls a display position of an extended menu according to the display position of the extended menu icon. The controller causes an extension function icon to be superimposed and displayed on the display window with a display position of the extension function icon being adjustable, the extension function icon being associated with an extension function selected on the extended menu, and controls a display position of a sub-icon accompanying the extension function icon, according to the display position of the extension function icon.