Terminal Server Drag Drop Proxy for Remote Applications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Networked computer systems lack the ability to conveniently drag and drop objects between local and remote applications, as client and server terminal server components are not configured to facilitate this interaction, making it difficult to transfer objects seamlessly across different application environments.
Innovation Solution
Implementing methods and systems that allow dragging and dropping of objects by using client and server components as proxy drop sources and targets, enabling the transfer of drag and drop objects between local and remote applications through terminal server sessions, with components acting as intermediaries to simulate drop source and target functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If clipboard functionality is used to transfer objects between local and remote applications, then object transfer is enabled, but the convenience of direct drag and drop interaction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a terminal server session as an intermediary layer between local and remote applications. This session enables drag and drop operations by mediating the transfer of objects between the local clipboard and remote application, allowing direct user interaction while bridging the gap between different system environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal server session is designed to handle multiple functions including clipboard operations, drag and drop transfers, and coordinate mapping. This multi-functional approach allows a single mechanism to support both local and remote application interactions without requiring separate specialized systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If terminal server protocols are used to communicate between client and server, then remote application access is enabled, but drag and drop object transfer functionality is not supported
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the terminal server session capabilities based on the detected drag and drop operation. When a drag operation is initiated, the session temporarily enables enhanced clipboard functionality and coordinate tracking, then returns to standard protocol operation after the transfer completes, providing adaptive support without permanently complicating the protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary detection of drag operations by monitoring cursor movement and mouse button states before the actual object transfer occurs. This preliminary action allows the terminal server to prepare the necessary clipboard and coordinate mapping mechanisms in advance, ensuring smooth drag and drop functionality when needed.
3Productivity
If direct object transfer between applications is implemented, then transfer speed is improved, but compatibility between incompatible applications is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses clipboard copying as an intermediary mechanism for object transfer. Instead of requiring direct compatibility between applications, the object is copied to the clipboard in a standardized format that can be retrieved by any application, enabling efficient transfer while maintaining broad compatibility across different software environments.
Data Source
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Figure 2A
AI summary
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for dragging and dropping objects between local and remote modules. Terminal server components simulate the functionality of participants in drag and drag operations to facilitate the dragging and dropping of objects between local and remote modules and vice versa. The terminal server components interact locally to communicate with modules participating in a drag and drop operation. The terminal server components also send messages over a terminal server session to relay appropriate drag and drop information to corresponding terminal server components on the other end of the terminal server session.