Immersive Environment Application Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional operating systems require significant display space for window frames, which can be time-consuming to manage and limit flexibility in viewing multiple applications simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
An immersive environment module and manager enable users to select and manage applications without window frames, allowing for flexible presentation and interaction with multiple applications on a display, using a user interface that can be invoked with minimal inputs, such as gestures or hot keys, to present and manage applications based on recent use or preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If window frames are used to manage multiple applications, then application control and layout management are enabled, but display space is reduced and management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the window frame element from the application presentation, allowing applications to be displayed without traditional window frames. This removes the display space consumed by frames while maintaining application management capabilities through alternative means such as the taskbar and start menu.
Solution Approach 2:
The taskbar serves multiple functions: it displays application icons, provides quick launch access, shows system notifications, and enables application switching. This multi-functional component replaces the need for individual window frame controls for each application.
2Ease of operation
If window frames with controls are used, then application primacy and layout can be managed, but user time and operational efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service application management through automatic taskbar updates. When applications are launched or minimized, their icons are automatically added or removed from the taskbar without requiring user intervention to manage window states or layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The taskbar pre-positions application icons in a standardized location at the bottom of the screen, establishing a consistent layout before the user needs to access applications. This eliminates the need for users to manually position or remember window locations.
3Area of stationary object
If applications are displayed without window frames, then display space is maximized, but application control and management flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The taskbar acts as an intermediary between the user and frameless applications. It provides the control and management functions that would normally be embedded in window frames, enabling users to switch between applications, access their functionality, and manage their states without visible window boundaries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves application management from the two-dimensional window frame space to the one-dimensional taskbar along the screen edge. This dimensional change consolidates control elements into a compact interface that doesn't compete with application content for display space.
Data Source
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AI summary
This document describes techniques and apparatuses for managing an immersive environment. These techniques and/or apparatuses enable a user to select when, where, or under what conditions to present applications in this immersive environment.