File Management Operations via Visual Color-Coding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer file systems limit users to performing single operations on multiple files at a time, lack the ability to categorize files for different operations, and do not allow for reversible actions, making it difficult to manage files effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method where pre-defined key combinations are used to assign operations to files, allowing users to visually select and color-code files for different operations, enabling concurrent execution of multiple operations while providing an overview of planned actions before final execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple files are selected for different operations, then file management flexibility is improved, but the system can only apply one function to all selected files
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the selection of files for operations by introducing visual markers (colored icons) that divide and categorize selected files according to different operations. Each file can be independently marked with a specific operation type (copy, move, delete, etc.), allowing the system to handle multiple files with different operations simultaneously, rather than applying a single operation to all selected files.
2Productivity
If operations are executed immediately after selection, then execution speed is improved, but the ability to review and undo operations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by requiring users to visually mark selected files with operation-specific icons before final execution. This intermediate marking stage allows users to review all planned operations, switch between different operation types, and potentially cancel or modify selections before the actual file operations are performed, thereby maintaining reversibility while preserving execution efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If focus switches between different file windows, then navigation flexibility is improved, but operation state is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the copying principle by maintaining a visual representation (copy of the operation state) through colored icons that are attached to each file. These visual markers persist across window switches and focus changes, allowing users to return to any file and see its assigned operation without losing the operation state, thus enabling flexible navigation while preserving information.
4Ease of operation
If all selected files receive the same operation, then operation simplicity is improved, but the ability to categorize files for different operations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by allowing different operation types to be assigned to different files within the same selection. Each file can have its own operation marker (different colored icons representing copy, move, delete, etc.), enabling users to categorize and differentiate files for specific operations while maintaining a unified selection interface. This provides both simplicity in selection and versatility in operation assignment.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for executing multiple operations on different files displayed on a graphical user interface. A pre-defined combination of keys is assigned a particular operation, such as “Delete,”“Copy,”“Move,” etc. As a first combination of keys is engaged, one or more files are selected, using a pointing device such as a mouse. The selected files are color-coded, indicating a first operation to be performed on the selected files. A second combination of keys is then engaged, and a second operation is assigned to other selected files. When satisfied that the selected operations are correct for all of the selected files, a user then executes the operations by depressing the “Enter” or similar key. By viewing different operations for different files before the operations are executed, a user is given an overview of all operations to be applied to all selected files, thus improving file management.