Graphical user interface with optimal transparency thresholds for maximizing user performance and system efficiency
US6118427A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 18, 1996 |
| Grant date | Sep 12, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 18, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG09G2340/12
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for providing a graphical user interface (GUI) for maximized user performance and system efficiency. The GUI utilizes variable-transparency to merge images (or layers) of objects onto a graphical display. For example, "see through" objects (such as menus, tool palettes, windows, dialogue boxes, or screens) are superimposed over similar objects or different background content (such as text, wire-frame or line art images, or solid images). A critical factor in the usability of variably-transparent GUI is the effect of visual interference on user performance. That is, the interaction between superimposed objects of varying types measurably alters performance to unacceptable levels in terms of user selection error rates and response times. The present invention provides a system and method of using optimal threshold transparency levels for user performance optimization. Correspondingly, the present invention does not substantially rely on visual enhancement techniques within the transparency ranges delineated by the optimal thresholds, thereby providing enhanced system efficiency. Additionally, the present invention provides hybrid windows having both variably-trans…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.