Multi-layer Tab Display for GUI Space Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional graphical user interfaces and display windows face challenges in efficiently displaying and interacting with multiple data objects or sheets, leading to user frustration and inefficient use of space, as users struggle to select and view desired content simultaneously or in synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A computer system with a layer manager, tab manager, and transfer manager that provides multiple content layers and tabs within a user interface window, allowing for the transfer of tabs between layers, enabling efficient and intuitive interaction with related content.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple data objects are displayed simultaneously in the user interface, then the amount of information available to the user increases, but the display space available for each individual object decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The display window is segmented into multiple layers, with each layer containing specific data objects. This allows multiple objects to be displayed simultaneously in different layers without competing for the same display space, resolving the contradiction between displaying more objects and maintaining adequate space for each object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension (depth/layers) to the traditional two-dimensional display interface. By organizing data objects across multiple layers, the system can display more objects without reducing the display space allocated to each individual object, as objects in different layers do not occupy the same visual space.
2Ease of operation
If individual sheets are provided for each data object, then each object can be viewed in entirety, but the user cannot simultaneously view multiple sheets
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the display into multiple layers, each capable of showing complete data objects. Users can switch between layers to view different objects in their entirety, while the layer structure enables simultaneous access to multiple objects across different layers, resolving the contradiction between viewing completeness and multi-object accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Each layer is designed to function as a complete viewing environment for its associated data object, while the collection of layers collectively provides multi-object viewing capability. This universal design allows the same layer structure to serve both purposes: individual object completeness and multiple object simultaneous access.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple content layers and tabs are provided, then the organization and management of data objects improves, but the complexity of the interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into layers and tabs, creating a hierarchical organization structure. This segmentation allows complex data sets to be divided into manageable segments (layers) with further segmentation (tabs) within each layer, improving organization while keeping each individual segment simple and intuitive to navigate.
Data Source
AI summary
A layer manager provides at least two content layers within a user interface window of a software application. A tab manager provides at least two content tabs within at least one of the content layers. A transfer manager is configured to transfer at least one content tab between the at least two content layers.