Layered Content Selection for Block Copying
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems are inefficient in allowing users to select and copy content from applications, requiring multiple cumbersome actions, especially when content is traditionally non-selectable.
Innovation Solution
A content selection application that enables block copying of content with a single, non-continuous action by presenting a layered user interface over the executing application, allowing quick access to additional actions like copying, sharing, and editing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional content selection methods are used (multiple actions including press and hold, clicking and dragging), then content can be selected, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-processes content into selectable blocks with defined boundaries before user interaction. When content is displayed, it is already segmented into logical blocks that can be selected with a single action, eliminating the need for users to manually drag and define selection areas.
Solution Approach 2:
Content is divided into discrete selectable blocks rather than requiring continuous user interaction. Each block represents a meaningful unit of content that can be independently selected, copied, or manipulated, simplifying the user interaction model.
2Adaptability or versatility
If content is made non-selectable in the executing application, then application integrity is maintained, but user flexibility and accessibility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
A content selection application acts as an intermediary layer between the user and the executing application. This mediator enables content selection and copying without requiring modifications to the executing application, thus maintaining application integrity while providing user flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The content selection application provides universal access to content selection functionality across multiple applications. Instead of each application needing to implement its own selection mechanism, a single universal tool enables content selection from any application that displays text or content blocks.
3Ease of operation
If a layered user interface is presented over the executing application, then content selection is enabled, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The content selection functionality is extracted as a separate layered interface that operates independently from the executing application. This extracted layer provides content selection capabilities without requiring integration into the application's core codebase, simplifying implementation while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
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AI summary
Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure describe functionality for content selection that efficiently enables block copying of content from an executing application even when content is traditionally non-selectable in the executing application. An application may be executing, for example, on a computing device. Input may be received that triggers activation of a user interface for content selection. A layered view of the application and the user interface may be presented based on the received input. As an example, the layered view presents the user interface layered over the application. A block portion of content from the application may be selected based on a single action. Among other examples, the single action may be a non-continuous device click or a non-continuous touch input processed through the user interface. Additional action(s) for the selected block portion of content may be accessible through the user interface.