GUI Proxy System for Dynamic Component Updates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for application programs implemented with component architectures like COM, DCOM, and CORBA are difficult to update with new features or capabilities without recompiling the entire application, and they often lack platform independence, requiring user retraining when switching between operating systems or GUI systems.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a renderer, a proxy, and a workflow manager that allows a web browser paradigm, such as DHTML, to provide a GUI for application programs, where the proxy appears as a single monolithic application program, communicating necessary components to the renderer for rendering the GUI, enabling dynamic updates and platform independence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fixed GUI frameworks are used for component architecture applications, then the application can provide stable and reliable user interface, but the GUI cannot be easily updated to include new program features or capabilities without recompiling the entire application program
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the GUI into independent, dynamically loadable components that can be updated separately from the core application. The system divides the traditional monolithic GUI into modular elements that can be individually modified, added, or removed without affecting the entire application structure, enabling flexible updates while maintaining overall system stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic GUI system where interface elements can be modified at runtime without recompilation. The architecture allows the GUI to adapt dynamically to new features and capabilities by loading updated components during execution, transforming the static nature of traditional GUIs into a flexible, evolving interface that keeps pace with application functionality.
2Ease of operation
If operating system-specific GUI frameworks are used, then the application can provide a native look and feel for that platform, but the user must be retrained to use the same program when it is run on a different operating system or GUI system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal GUI layer that functions across multiple operating systems and platforms. This universal interface architecture allows the same application to maintain consistent user interaction patterns regardless of the underlying platform, eliminating the need for users to retrain when switching between different operating systems while still supporting platform-specific rendering when appropriate.
3Ease of manufacture
If web browser paradigm is adopted for GUI rendering, then the GUI can be dynamically updated without recompiling the application, but additional services and features are required to implement a complete GUI for an application program
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that bridges web browser technology and traditional application GUI requirements. This mediator component translates and coordinates between the browser's rendering capabilities and the application's functional needs, enabling dynamic GUI updates through web technologies while providing the additional services and features necessary for a complete application interface experience.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented system is disclosed for providing a graphical user interface (GUI) for an application program. The system includes a renderer, a proxy, and a workflow manager. The renderer is defined to render the GUI. The proxy is defined to provide to the renderer each component necessary for rendering the GUI. The proxy appears to the renderer as a single monolithic application program. The workflow manager is defined to communicate one or more document viewers and their associated user interface components to the proxy for provision to the renderer. The document viewers and their associated user interface components represent components necessary for rendering the GUI.