Markup Layer Segmentation for Document Formatting Preservation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing document editing technologies face challenges in efficiently applying font attribute changes and generating informational graphics without altering the document's formatting attributes, leading to issues in preserving the original shape and readability, especially in applications like legal contracts.
Innovation Solution
A method and computer program that allow for the automatic application of font attribute changes, such as strikethrough, and the generation of informational graphics within the relative white space of a document, without changing the document's formatting attributes, using user-defined preferences for font and graphical elements, and incorporating user-inputted text to indicate changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If font attribute changes are applied to document text, then the document's information and readability are improved, but the document's original shape and formatting attributes are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the document into two distinct layers: the original document layer and the markup layer. Font attribute changes are applied only to the markup layer elements (informational graphics, white space elements, connection graphics) while the original document text and formatting remain unchanged in the original layer. This segmentation allows information enhancement without shape alteration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional layer (markup layer) above the original document layer. Instead of modifying the existing document structure in-place, it adds markup elements in a separate dimensional space that can contain font attribute changes without affecting the original document's shape and formatting attributes.
2Loss of information
If informational graphics are generated in white space, then document information and clarity are improved, but device complexity and user input requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically generates informational graphics, white space elements, and connection graphics based on detected font attribute changes. The markup generation process is self-service oriented, where the system autonomously creates the necessary markup elements without requiring manual user intervention for each graphic element, thereby reducing the perceived complexity for users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes preference settings in advance that define how informational graphics should be generated. These pre-configured preferences automate the markup generation process, reducing the need for complex real-time decisions and user inputs during document editing.
3Shape
If markup is applied to preserve document shape, then document readability is maintained, but the extent of automation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors font attribute changes in the original document and automatically triggers the generation of corresponding informational graphics in the markup layer. This feedback mechanism maintains high automation levels while preserving document shape, as the system responds automatically to changes without requiring manual markup creation.
4Ease of operation
If standard paper sizes are used for printing, then ease of operation is improved, but the ability to display all markup elements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts markup elements (informational graphics, white space elements, connection graphics) into a separate markup layer that can be independently controlled. This allows the original document to be printed on standard paper sizes while markup elements can be selectively included, excluded, or scaled separately, resolving the conflict between standard paper size constraints and markup display requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of this disclosure relate to a process whereby markup text and/or graphics may be overlaid on top of an original document such that a user may view both the original document and the overlaid text and graphics together in an unobtrusive manner. Some aspects further discuss broader markup functionalities, such as modifying the content or appearance of text and graphics when a mark-up function is performed.