Flexible and hierarchical user interfaces defined using a data definition language
US6778992B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 21, 1999 |
| Grant date | Aug 17, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 21, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S707/99942
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A flexible and hierarchical user interface, defined using a data definition language, such as the extensible Markup Language (XML), is disclosed. In one embodiment, such an interface is defined by at least one file in the data definition language. A base file defines a basic look and behavior of the interface. The file also includes data, such as multimedia data, for access via the interface. One or more extension files modify the basic look and behavior of the interface as initially defined by the base file. In one particular embodiment, the interface includes a number of components organized into a number of layers. Each layer has a view state that is changeably selectable between visible and hidden.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.