Multi-Paragraph Text Format Copying via Pattern Matching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current document processing software, such as Microsoft Word, can only copy one format pattern at a time when applying formats from a sample object to a target object, even if the sample object contains multiple paragraphs with different formats, leading to inefficient formatting operations.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus that allow users to select a sample object with multiple paragraphs of varying formats, determine the corresponding format patterns for a target object's paragraphs, and apply these formats simultaneously, enabling multiple format patterns to be copied and applied to the target object based on determined relationships.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional format copying method is used, then one format pattern can be copied at a time, but multiple formatting operations are required leading to reduced productivity

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveformatting operation efficiencyVSAvoidtime for repetitive formatting operations

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple format copying operations into a single operation by detecting multiple format patterns in the source object and applying them simultaneously to the target object, eliminating the need for repeated formatting operations and improving productivity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary detection of multiple format patterns in the source object before the copying operation, preparing the format information in advance so that all formats can be applied in one step rather than requiring multiple sequential operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Adaptability or versatility

If simple format copying is used, then the operation is straightforward, but it cannot handle multiple different format patterns simultaneously

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecapability to handle multiple format patternsVSAvoidcomplexity of format copying mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the source object into multiple format regions with different format patterns, detecting each segment's format independently and then applying the corresponding format to the appropriate target region, enabling handling of multiple formats while maintaining clear operational logic

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a format detection and matching mechanism as an intermediary that analyzes the source object's multiple formats, determines the correspondence relationship with target regions, and coordinates the application of appropriate formats, thereby managing complexity through a structured intermediate process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10255248B2Reformatting multiple paragraphs of text using the formatting of a sample object by creating multiple candidate combinations and selecting a closest match

Publication Date: 2019.04.09 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION

AI summary

The invention relates to electronic document processing. Embodiments of the present invention relate to a method and apparatus for copying a text format pattern. In one embodiment of the present invention there is a method for copying a text format pattern, including: receiving a selection of a sample object from a user, the sample object including multiple sample paragraphs of which at least two sample paragraphs have different format patterns; receiving a format copying instruction of from the user, the format copying instruction indicating reformatting a target object with the format pattern of the sample object, where the target object contains multiple target paragraphs; determining a corresponding relationship of the format pattern of the sample paragraphs with the target paragraphs; and applying the format pattern of the sample paragraphs to the target paragraphs in accordance with the corresponding relationship.