Method for managing simultaneous display of multiple windows in a graphical user interface
US6025841A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 15, 1997 |
| Grant date | Feb 15, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 15, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG09G5/14
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for managing simultaneous display of multiple windows in a graphical user interface (GUI). A computer system with a display and user interface input device displays a primary or container window on the display, comprising a predetermined region for displaying information and/or receiving user commands associated with a first computer process. The system displays a target window comprising a predetermined region for displaying information and/or receiving user commands associated with a different computer process. The target window is typically displayed in a higher z-order relative to the primary window to maintain it on top. In response to a predetermined triggering condition, the target window is manipulated by movement, temporary disappearance, and/or size reduction, while maintaining the relative z-order of the target window relative to the primary window and away from a predetermined avoidance region associated with the first computer process. The target window can be moved away a minimal distance, biased in a predetermined direction, or positioned at anchor points relative to the container window to avoid obscuring the avoidance region.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.