DE102009000430A1 - Data object characteristics adjusting method for display of e.g. computer system, involves releasing restriction of movement data of pointing device without adjusting characteristics of data object when selected option is broken - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves opening an option window representing displayed option spaces (106, 107) by activating option activators. Movement data of a pointing device (101) e.g. mouse, are restricted in preset selection regions for the option window. Characteristics (105) of a data object (104) are adjusted on a selected option when a desired option is associated with change in the characteristics. The restriction of the movement data is released without adjusting the characteristics of the data object when the selected option is broken. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) a system for adjusting characteristics of data object displayed on a display (2) a software program product with a set of instructions for performing a method for adjusting characteristics of data object displayed on a display.

Description

since The 80s of the last century are graphical user interfaces (GUIs) have been developed to facilitate the use of computer devices simplify and even allow less experienced users to a computer at a high level of interaction and control to use. Graphical user interfaces are by use graphical elements for displaying the information on a computer screen and defines a pointing device such as a mouse or a trackpad, which allows the user to use the computer by moving one of the Pointing device Pointer on the display and triggering commands to the computer by clicking with a button provided on the pointing device specific areas of the display and the windows shown on the display, logically linked to commands, settings, etc. interacts. Typical elements of a graphical user interface, the displayed on a display include dialog boxes to be processed Information containing windows and menus that (usually "drop-down") through Click on their display to be activated with the pointing device.

Since their introductory form, graphical user interfaces have been continually refined by incorporating new principles of interaction to allow more things to be done with the pointing devices and to simplify higher level interaction. For example, in 1989 NeXT ^{™ introduced} a graphical user interface in which a secondary button on a pointing device was associated with the activation and display of the menu at the current position of the pointer so that the user could invoke commands from that menu without it being necessary to move the pointing device to reach the primary menu in the upper left corner of the display, thereby reducing time consuming mouse movements. This concept was later also used for so-called "context menus" in which clicking with a secondary pointing device button opened a context-sensitive menu that did not resemble the normal menu of a particular application, but only showed commands in some way consistent with the context of Windows etc. had something to do with the pointer being localized at the moment the context menu was activated.

Yet later was another graphic interface improvement Possibility, a graphical "slider" instead of a menu to be more active when clicking on a specific position of an ad. Here led Click a secondary Push buttons of a pointing device for displaying a small subwindow, which was a slider that could then be moved up and down (or right and left) by clicking-and-holding on the slider and the pointing device was moved. The click is in this case with the primary Pointing device button performed.

All these developments required changes on the underlying operating system, since they are all in one Way to interact with the central event queue, the is used to mouse or other pointing device events to receive and apply them to the appropriate elements of the graphic Distribute a user interface (for example, to bring up a window to an active user interface) Close the window when clicked, and mouse information (events via mouse activity) to send the window), which in turn recognize the events and act according to their preprogrammed functionality.

however led an ever-increasing demand for even more demanding data processing and a desire to further simplify the interaction with computer programs to a continued need for improvements in approaches to Interaction over graphical elements of graphic user interfaces. To the restrictions and the somewhat confusing operation of context menus and contextuals Overcome sliders The present invention provides a method for adjusting a Property of the data object displayed on a display over the Control of a pointing device input according to independent claim 1, such as also a system for it according to the independent claim 27 ready. Further advantageous aspects, features and details of the present Invention are dependent on the Claims, the description and the attached Illustrated drawings.

• – Bei Aktivierung eines Optionsauslösers mit einer Zeigevorrichtung, wobei der Optionsauslöser mit zumindest einer Eigenschaft des dargestellten Datenobjektes assoziiert ist: Öffnen eines Optionsfensters, das einen Optionsraum darstellt, der Optionen für die Eigenschaft an einer Position in Bezug auf eine Position des die Zeigevorrichtung repräsentierenden Zeigers auf der Anzeige umfasst;
• – Beschränken von Bewegungsdaten aus der Zeigevorrichtung auf zumindest einen vorgegebenen Auswahlbereich für das Optionsfenster, das logisch mit dem Optionsraum assoziiert ist; und Beschränken der Bewegung des Zeigers auf die Darstellung des Auswahlbereichs;
• – Wahrnehmung von Bewegung des Zeigers zu einer erwünschten Option des dargestellten Optionsraums und beim Wahrnehmen einer Auswahl der gewünschten Option: falls die gewünschte Option mit einer Änderung in der Eigenschaft des Datenobjektes assoziiert ist, Einstellen der Eigenschaft auf die ausgewählte Option; und Freigeben der Beschränkung von Bewegungsdaten der Zeigevorrichtung, oder, falls die ausgewählte Option ein Abbrechen ist, Freigeben der Beschränkung von Bewegungsdaten aus der Zeigevorrichtung ohne Umstellen der Eigenschaft.

In one aspect, the invention is directed to a method of adjusting a property of the data object displayed on a display by controlling a pointing device input. A method according to the invention comprises the steps:

• Upon activation of an option trigger with a pointing device, wherein the option trigger is associated with at least one property of the represented data object: opening an options window representing an option space of the options for the property at a position relative to a position of the pointer representing the pointing device the advertisement comprises;
• Restricting movement data from the pointing device to at least one predetermined selection area for the options window logically associated with the option space; and restricting the movement of the pointer to the Presentation of the selection area;
• - perceiving movement of the pointer to a desired option of the displayed option space and in perceiving a selection of the desired option: if the desired option is associated with a change in the property of the data object, setting the property to the selected option; and releasing the constraint of movement data of the pointing device or, if the selected option is a cancel, releasing the restriction on movement data from the pointing device without changing the characteristic.

In another aspect, the invention is directed to a system for adjusting a property of a data object displayed on a display by controlling a pointing device input. This object includes:
a property setting object for receiving activation information indicating the activation of an option trigger, wherein the option trigger is associated with at least one property of the represented data object; for sending information about the property to an option selection object; and
if the selected option is associated with a change in the property of the data object, setting the property in the data object to the selected option;
where the option selection object
for generating display information for an options window to be displayed on a display at a position relative to a position of a pointer representing the pointing device containing information about an option space including options for the property,
for transmitting restriction information restricting movement data from the pointing device to at least one predetermined selection area of the options window, to a restriction object,
for receiving movement data and selection information from the restriction object; and
to send, upon receiving the selection of an option, information about the selected option to the property setting object, or, if the selected option is a cancel, sending an abort information indicating that the property is not to be changed; and
to send restriction release information to the restriction object after selection or abort,
being the restriction object
for transmitting, in response to the received restriction information, restricted motion data and selection information to the option selection object and to a pointer presentation object for generating pointer presentation movement information restricted to the representation of the selection area.

In a preferred embodiment There are at least two selection areas, of which one to choose is determined by options of the property and one of which is to select the property Abortment is determined, with the two selection areas arranged in such a way are that they allow a movement of the pointer between them, essentially continuous to an operator of the pointing device appears.

The two selection areas can have different orientations. You can, for example, to each other be arranged at right angles.

Farther can the inventive method be characterized in that when movement data of the pointing device indicate that the pointer is a given border area of a selection area has reached, the pointer from the selection area in which the pointer the Has reached the limit range to another predetermined selection range is switched.

By this approach makes it possible To provide selection areas of complex shapes, such as T-shaped, C-shaped or U-shaped.

Farther the method may be characterized in that the representation the option space and selection area in a page-by-page layout are arranged, each coordinate point of the selection area is logically associated with an option space option that is in side-by-side relationship in the Representation of the option space is displayed.

This leads to the situation that limits the pointer to an area of something opposite the option space representation (such as the slider) is offset, to improve the visibility of this option space, since he then not covered by the pointer.

Preferably becomes a selector (sometimes called a "thumb") and a graphic Element of a distinct design) that indicates which option on detection a selection would be selected, synchronous to the movement of the pointer moves.

This Element can have an extra give visual indication as to which option of the option space would be selected if the selection would be effected.

The method according to the invention can be further characterized in that the selection region at least partially represents the representation of the Opti Onsraums overlaps and that coordinates of points of the selection area that are logically associated with options, are identical to coordinates of the representation of these options, so that a selection of an option can be made by clicking or tapping on their appearance.

"Overlapping" means here, that the virtual coordinates of the display space for the two Elements (one of which is generally a graphic element and one a "sensitive" area is not shown, but to calculate the selection an option, etc.) overlap to a large extent.

The Method according to the invention may also be characterized in that the option trigger is on Option area within a representation of a data object the display is, and an activation is performed via the pointing device. Namely, they will in preferred embodiments the data objects for used the purpose of visualizing certain aspects of reality and they do this through windows on the screen showing the Represent data object. Within such a window may be a small sub-area or a subwindow may be provided as one such option area acting, for example, by clicking or clicking with the pointing device can be activated.

Preferably This activation can be a click-stop with the pointing device be in the options area, with the selection of the desired Option is perceived as releasing the pointing device at the Presentation of the desired Option. Since the button used to click-hold is still depressed, when the options window is displayed, you must select an option in this case by loosening the pointing device (the button) are made.

The Activation can also be a click with the pointing device in the Option range, where selecting the desired option as a click of the Pointing device perceived at the presentation of the desired option becomes. In this case, the button of the pointing device does not remain depressed and solved accordingly is, when the options window is displayed, it is clear that Activation by pressing the button again (although this is also done by clicking with another button could be.

at an alternative embodiment the method according to the invention exists the option trigger in given data from the pointing device.

The inventive method may be characterized in that the predetermined data a Click hold input that exceeds a predetermined hold time, being the desired Option by clicking the pointing device again on the display the desired Option selected becomes.

The given data can also be a click of another button on the pointing device, which has been pre-assigned to the property and / or the data object, being the desired Option by clicking the pointing device on the presentation again the desired Option selected becomes. Of course it is also possible, everyone Key to assign a specific property to a keyboard (itself within a given data object), so the option trigger also the pressing a key on such a keyboard.

Preferably the pointing device is a mouse or a trackball.

at another preferred embodiment According to the invention, the pointing device is a "touch screen" (touch-sensitive Screen).

Then can the option area by touching the screen in the options area be activated, with the desired Option by releasing the touch at the presentation of the desired option selected becomes.

The Activation of the option trigger may also be a predetermined plurality of fingers which the Touch touch screen, or a gesture of a plurality of fingers.

The Method according to the invention is preferably characterized in that an option within of the option space is an extension, when you select it from the Selection area a secondary Options window, which has a larger option area which includes more options for selection by the pointing device is presented, and the restriction movement data is removed from the pointing device, or the movement of the pointer to at least one predetermined selection area of the secondary Option window limited becomes.

Farther the extension is preferably through another selection area accessible, the yourself from the selection area for distinguishes the option room.

The Data object is preferably a logical entity or the strength of a logical connection between at least two entities.

At the Method according to the invention Preferably, the property is a significance of said entity or logical Connection. The above, d. H. the strength of a logical connection or a significance of the same may be provided by a user of the invention system or can be generated automatically using, for example, artificial intelligence approaches.

The Representation of the data object on the display preferably changes depending on the selected one Option of the property.

A set option of a property can preferably be internal in Data object to be saved without changes in the appearance of the Data object. This is an alternative to change in appearance, though the property is one that is in the representation of the data object reflects. For example, it can be used internally by the system be or could represented by a specific command issued in the system (and has nothing to do with the present invention).

The inventive method is in a preferred embodiment characterized in that the options window has a slider, a Dialog box, a menu box or a value field.

Of the Selection area is preferably substantially linear and the pointer movement representation is preferably a linear, and ideally linear and limited vertical movement.

Farther the method may also be characterized in that at least two selection areas, both of which are substantially linear, in a mutual relationship are arranged so that the Pointer motion representation limited to two linear movements.

As stated above, the invention in a further aspect is a System directed to setting a property of a data object, displayed on a display about controlling a pointing device input.

Preferably the pointer is controlled by a pointer driver object which Inputs from a pointing device processed by the constraint object modified or overwritten or passed through there; to restrict movement data the pointing device. There are several approaches to implementing as the movement data is limited become. For example, this can be achieved by hardware reconfiguration over one separate configuration entity, the as the restriction object acts, replacing the driver for the pointing device through one that is able to the event queue restrict sent data, Provide an additional Program object intercepting the output from the driver the required functionality within the object of the procedure itself (internal processing with permanent review of the Motion data and correcting the pointer coordinate data to the objects are forwarded, which for the selection / pointer display are responsible for being within the selection range) Etc..

at a preferred embodiment is the restriction object integrated into the pointer driver object.

The inventive system is preferably by means of mechanical or electrical restrictions marked the movement of the pointing device. Such a limitation can For example, with so-called "force feedback" - (force Feedback) joysticks or by switching off certain areas of the input circuit of touch-sensitive Screens are reached.

Preferably the pointing device is a mouse or a trackball.

The Pointing device may also be a touch screen, such as a professional known single contact or multi-touch screen.

In a preferred embodiment In the inventive system, there is a data object presenter for reading out information from the data object and generating information in terms of the representation of the data object on the display; where the set Options for considered at least one property which define the representation of the said data object or modify. Such a presenter in most cases a part of the overall presentation system in which the system of the invention is embedded / used.

The Option selection object and the restriction object are preferable designed for Information through an event queue of an event queue to send the system implementing computer system.

The Option selection object and the restriction object are preferable designed for information about an event queue of a system implementing computer system to send.

Preferably is an option within the options space an extension where the system further comprises an extension selection object that designed for it is, when selecting the extension on the selection area a secondary options window representing another option space, the more Options for selection by the pointing device includes, and is designed to the restriction of movement data from the pointing device release or the Movement of the pointer to at least one predetermined selection area for the secondary Restrict options window.

In a particularly preferred embodiment is the system of the invention for it designed to carry out the inventive method.

The The invention will be described in more detail below where accurate Reference is made to the attached drawings, in which the following is shown:

1 shows an embodiment of a system according to the invention;

2 shows an embodiment of a method according to the invention;

3 Fig. 12 is an illustration of a data object and an options window for selecting an option for a property of the data object;

4 Figure 12 shows a representation of a data object and another type of option window for selecting an option for a property of the data object;

5 shows the options window of 4 and how it can be extended by another extension options window with a larger option space, shown as a value raster;

6 Figure 11 is an illustration of a data object and yet another options window for selecting an option for a property of the data object;

7 Figure 12 is an illustration of another type of data object and an options window for selecting an option for a property of the data object;

8th shows an options window and how the value of its associated property can be graphically changed;

9 Fig. 12 is an illustration of a data object of yet another option window for selecting an option for a property of the data object; and

10 Figure 12 shows as another type of data object a relation represented by an arrow between two further data objects and an option window for setting an option value for a property of the data object.

• – Datenobjekt: jegliches logische Objekt, das verwendet wird, um eine gegebene Entität des ”echten Lebens” zu symbolisieren, d. h. jegliches visuelle Symbol einschließlich der Relation zwischen anderen solchen Datenobjekten (d. h. eine Beziehung zwischen ”A” und ”B” umfasst drei Datenobjekte: A, B und die Relation zwischen ihnen). Ein Datenobjekt wird zumeist als ein Objekt oder ein Datensatz in einer Datenbank implementiert werden und enthält Einträge, welche die Entität, die es symbolisiert, definieren, oder damit assoziierte Charakteristika.
• – Eigenschaft: jegliche Charakteristika des Objekts, wie Farbe der Darstellung, von einem Bediener angenommene Signifikanz, Dringlichkeit, dem Datenobjekt Beachtung zu schenken, Dimension und Form der Darstellung des Datenobjektes, Editierstatus, oder beliebige ”Platzhalter”-Werte mit einer lediglich durch einen Anwender des Systems zugewiesenen Bedeutung (d. h. memorisiert).
• – Optionsraum: Alle/ein Teil von Optionen, die mit einer Eigenschaft assoziiert sind, d. h. all die Werte, die sie annehmen kann, und ebenfalls möglicherweise Optionen wie ”Abbruch” (d. h. keine Änderung gegenüber eingestellten Eigenschaftsoption) oder ”Erweiterung” (zeige eine größere Untermenge von/alle Optionen für eine bestimmte Eigenschaft),
• – Optionsfenster: Pop-up-Fenster, das Darstellungen von Optionen innerhalb eines Optionsraums zeigt, das unterschiedliche Formen annehmen kann, wie etwa eine Schiebereglerbox, einen Werteraster oder eine Dialogbox.
• – Darstellung eines Objekts: Prozess und sein Ergebnis zur Erzeugung eines zweidimensionalen Fensters oder einer ähnlichen Pixelanordnung, welche das Objekt graphisch repräsentiert, auf einer Anzeige.
• – Optionsauslöser: jegliches Systemereignis, das in der Lage ist, den Prozess der Optionsauswahl bei seiner Aktivierung zu starten.
• – Optionsbereich: zweidimensionaler Bereich innerhalb der Darstellung des Datenobjekts als ein Auslösebereich zum Aufrufen einer Optionsfensters, kann hervorgehoben/anders betont sein.
• – Auswahlbereich: zweidimensionale logische Fläche (in denselben Koordinaten wie die Anzeige), wobei jeder Koordinatenpunkt mit einer Option eines im Optionsfenster dargestellten Optionsraums assoziiert ist.
• – Optionsfenster: Pop-up-Fenster, das Darstellungen von Optionen innerhalb des Optionsraums zeigt, kann unterschiedliche Formen annehmen, wie eine Schiebereglerbox, ein Wertegitter, eine Dialogbox.
• – Schiebereglerbox: ein Optionsfenster, das kontinuierliche (z. B. numerische) oder diskrete (z. B. Farben, Aktionen) Optionen innerhalb des Optionsraums in einer zumeist linearen Anordnung darstellt, optional enthaltend spezielle Bereiche mit Funktionen wie abbrechen oder erweitern.
• – Werteraster: ein Optionsfenster, das kontinuierliche (z. B. Vektoren) oder diskrete (z. B. Farben, Aktionen) Optionen innerhalb des Optionsraums in einer zweidimensionalen Anordnung darstellt, optional spezielle Bereiche mit Funktionen wie Abbrechen oder Akzeptieren enthaltend.
• – Zeiger: Darstellung von Position/Zustand eines ”Hot Spots” an Aktivität auf der Anzeige, wie durch eine Zeigevorrichtung (Maus, berührungssensitiver Bildschirm) gegeben.
• – Klick-Halten: Drücken der Maustaste, ohne sie loszulassen.
• – Klicken: Drücken und Loslassen der Maustaste.
• – Klick-Halt-Verzögerung: Drücken der Maustaste und Loslassen nach Verstreichen einer vorgegebenen Zeit.
• – Programmobjekt: jedes Programmierkonstrukt (einschließlich Objekten, Aspekten und Komponenten), das eine gewissen Funktionalität implementiert, oft einschließlich der Fähigkeit zur Darstellung von Fenstern eines gegebenen Inhalts auf der Anzeige.
• – Geste: eine Bewegung von Finger(n) auf einem Touch Screen.
• – Schieberegler: ein kleines, zumeist längliches Fenster mit zumindest einem beweglichen Element, das einen Wert/Option einer Eigenschaft anzeigt. Zumeist einhergehend mit irgendeiner Darstellung der Werte, wie ein durchnummerierter Bereich, oder von Symbolen, welche die Optionen anzeigen.

During the disclosure of the specification, the following terms will be used, the definitions of which must be read in the light of the average knowledge of programming approaches. They are not intended to limit the invention, but merely serve as a basis for understanding the terms used and should always be considered in light of expert knowledge.

• Data object: any logical object used to symbolize a given entity of "real life", ie any visual symbol including the relation between other such data objects (ie a relationship between "A" and "B" comprises three data objects: A, B and the relation between them). A data object will usually be implemented as an object or record in a database and contains entries that define the entity that symbolizes it, or associated characteristics.
• Property: any characteristics of the object, such as color of presentation, operator-perceived significance, urgency to pay attention to the data object, dimension and shape of presentation of the data object, editing status, or any "wildcard" values with only one user the meaning assigned to the system (ie memorized).
• Option Space: All / part of options associated with a property, ie all the values it can accept, and also possibly options such as "abort" (ie no change to set property option) or "extension" (show a greater subset of / all options for a particular property),
• - Options Window: Pop-up window that displays representations of options within an options space that can take different forms, such as a slider bar, value grid, or dialog box.
• Representation of an object: Process and its result for generating a two-dimensional window or similar pixel arrangement, which graphically represents the object, on a display.
• - Option Trigger: any system event that is able to start the process of option selection when activated.
• - Option area: two-dimensional area in Within the representation of the data object as a trigger area for invoking an options window may be emphasized / otherwise emphasized.
• Selection area: two-dimensional logical area (in the same coordinates as the display), each coordinate point being associated with an option of an option space displayed in the options window.
• - Options Window: A pop-up window that displays options within the options space can take different forms, such as a slider box, a value grid, a dialog box.
• Slider box: an options window that displays continuous (eg, numerical) or discrete (eg, colors, actions) options within the option space in a mostly linear array, optionally including special areas with functions such as abort or expand.
• Value raster: an options window that displays continuous (eg, vectors) or discrete (eg, colors, actions) options within the option space in a two-dimensional array, optionally including special areas with functions such as cancel or accept.
• Pointer: Representation of position / state of a "hot spot" of activity on the display, as given by a pointing device (mouse, touch-sensitive screen).
• - Click-hold: Press the mouse button without letting go.
• - Click: Press and release the mouse button.
• - Click-stop delay: Press the mouse button and release after elapse of a predetermined time.
• Program Object: any programming construct (including objects, aspects, and components) that implements some functionality, often including the ability to display windows of a given content on the display.
• - Gesture: a movement of finger (s) on a touch screen.
• - Slider: a small, mostly elongated window with at least one moving element that displays a value / option of a property. Mostly associated with any representation of the values, such as a numbered area, or symbols indicating the options.

1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the system according to the invention. 1 shows additional elements not belonging to the invention as such, which have been incorporated into the figure for the sake of clarity. For the most part, elements shown in this regard are those included in the typical functionality of a graphical user interface.

The Objects that are described below and which also in the claims are understood to be functional objects, i. H. Entities, which fulfill certain functions, but not necessarily program objects in the actual Have to be meaningful. You can Objects, functions, aspects, components, etc. Thus, the functional objects complete as software, complete as hardware or combinations thereof. In one embodiment are a processing unit and a memory, the program objects stores, provided, wherein the processing unit the program objects from the store loads and execute the command statements of the program objects. Also can the functions, which are disclosed as separate objects, arbitrarily and / or dependent combined by the functionality provided by a particular operating system, shared etc. They are discrete function groups that are similar to each other Tasks belong, not necessarily integrated into a single program construct.

As already stated, shows 1 an embodiment of an inventive system for adjusting a property of a data object displayed on a display by controlling a pointing device input. The ad 100 will generally be part of a computer system, such as a personal computer, a mainframe, a mini-computer, a mobile device, etc. A pointing device 101 is also included in such a computer system. The pointing device 101 is exemplarily shown as a mouse, but may also be a track pad, graphics tablet, or a touch-sensitive screen on the display 100 be. Furthermore, drivers for these hardware devices are incorporated, e.g. B. a program object for controlling a screen memory of a graphics card, etc. for operating the display, which may be a graphic driver and by reference numerals 102 and a program object for receiving and processing information representing signals from the pointing device serving as a pointing device program object 103 referred to as.

Furthermore, data objects 104 provided and may for example be stored in a database. These data objects can have one or more properties 105 which define characteristics of these data objects consisting of a characteristic defining a quality of the property and a value or option defining a quantity of the set property. There is virtually no limit to what these data objects represent or symbolize, nor their properties and associated options.

The Invention can be used, for example, in time management systems, group management systems, Project planning systems, "Mind Map" systems etc. are used. Accordingly, data objects can be qualitative and / or quantitative data, such as an appointment date, for example, properties such as time and day, importance, assigned documents, other persons involved, etc. an object of a meeting that has properties such as agenda items to be discussed, location, importance or simply optical markings such as color, size, highlighting and / or Form of their representation on the display, has; Project points how things to do, including a task, urgency, Deadline, connection with other tasks, to carry out the Task required materials, references to previous ones or subsequent steps; or "ideas" objects, what thoughts in terms of a specific brainstorming session, etc.

Of course, the values or options for the properties largely depend on the property and are all fully unlimited. As already detailed above, a so-called "option space" in the sense of the present invention means all the options or a subset of the options / values that a given property can assume. Depending on this option space, information can be contained either within the data object itself, as by 106 in 1 shown, or by separate options space definitions 107 which are external to the data objects and can be stored in a separate database or simply implemented by means of operating system functionality. For example, if the property is a color of the representation of the data object or should be represented by such a color, the option space may well be the color palette of an operating system itself. Since this color space is known and can be invoked through a particular function of the operating system and will normally be expressed as a numerical value, there is no need to store information about that option space within the data object but only the color value of the property. Conversely, if on the other hand an option space quite specific to a particular data object is employed, it may be better to provide either such option space within the data structure of each data object or in a "class" defining the structure of such a data object , For example, if a particular range is used as an option space, such as numerical values ranging from 0 to 8.4, this may be a more appropriate approach. Likewise, if the option space includes linguistic characteristics, or a user-definable set of options, it may also be better to provide those within the data object itself. For example, if the property is "Quality", an options space may include values such as "Excellent,""VeryGood,""Good,""Fair,""Average," and "Poor."

The system according to the invention also comprises a property setting object 108 as well as an option selection object 109 , These two objects interact to represent options for a property of a data object and to change the option for such a property. They thus form a kind of object pair that can be used as a backend (background, property object) 108 ) and frontend (foreground, option selection object 109 ) serve. Of course, the functionality associated with these two objects could also be implemented in an "object" (in the sense of a programming object), could be distributed over a large array of different objects, or could be offloaded as a function within the operating system on which the inventive system is running ,

The backend portion, ie property setting object 108 is for accessing the data objects, ie reading options / values for properties and sending information required to reset these options to the option selection device 109 which in turn is responsible for generating appropriate option windows representing the options available for the property and informing a constraint object 110 of constraint conditions related to the motion data of the pointer.

Finally, there is also a data object presenter 111 which generates information about the data objects to be displayed on the display and this information to the display driver 102 sends.

In the following, the function of restricting the movement data will be explained in detail. Generally, data from a pointing device is not limited (although the pointer is generally "truncated" at the edge of the display). The user is free to move the pointer representing the position of the pointing device by moving the pointing device or other operation (such as moving a ball of a thumbwheel or moving fingers on a touch screen). Either the movement of the pointing device or a position of the pointing device on the display representing motion data, for example, by the pointer object 103 generated and sent to the display driver 102 which in turn generates a representation of the pointer at the given position of the display. The information path 150 reflects this transfer of Transaction data.

This situation changes when an option trigger is activated. In most cases, though not limited thereto, an option trigger will be a combination of a particular position of the pointer and a pressed button of the pointing device or a touch panel. A determination as to whether an option trigger has been activated or not can be made, for example, by the option triggering object 109 or by another object that is in the 1 not shown. The required information indicating that an option trigger has been activated may be obtained by combining motion data, for example, via the motion data path 151 or 151a be obtained (a branch of the same, the pointer object 103 ranges) with other information, such as the position of option areas within windows, data objects on the display window etc. are generated. There are numerous approaches to generating the required information that activation of an option trigger has been effected, and those skilled in the art will be able to implement this functionality using generally available knowledge. Anyway, the target object that will eventually be informed about the activation of an option trigger is the property setting object 108 which, after having received and possibly analyzed the proper activation information, sets a property and an option / value set for the property associated with the option trigger for a particular data object (via data object path 153 ) and provide appropriate information to the option selection object 109 passes. For example, this information may include a property category and the currently set option to allow the option selection object to present a suitable options window. The property setting object may also contain required information, e.g. B. option space information, from the option space definitions 107 receive; although this information is also given by the option selection object 109 can be won directly.

After the option selection object 109 this information from the property setting object 108 (and from the objects 107 if necessary) via the property selection path 154 has received, it generates display information for an options window to be displayed on the display and sends it to the display driver 102 , In most cases, this presentation information defines a window that represents at least part of the option space. The shape and structure of this window are generally determined by the type of option space. For example, if a numerical range is to be displayed, a slider window showing a slider indicative of the range may be appropriate. The information about the option space, ie which options / values / areas are to be displayed, can be obtained from the property setting object 108 can be passed on directly by reading out the necessary information from the options room 106 within the data object 104 can be obtained or can from the option rooms 107 be won. This depends on the implementation of the invention.

At substantially the same time, or at least when the options window is to be displayed on the display, the option selection object sends 109 also via the constraint information path 152 a restriction information to the restriction object 110 indicating a selection area to which the movement of the pointer and / or the generation of movement data to the objects of the system should be restricted. In general, this selection area will somehow coincide with the options window, e.g. For example, it may overlay the options window or it may be in a side-by-side relationship with the options window.

In 1 are the pointer object 103 and the restriction object 110 connected by dashed lines to indicate that these two objects may be closely associated or implemented within an object. However, this is not to be considered as limiting. In fact, there are numerous options for how the restriction is implemented. One option is to use some kind of "interceptor", which also has objects 110 is representable, which between the pointer object 103 and the display driver 102 is interposed and recalculates any movement data to be within the selection range. The restriction can also be made by means of the pointer object 103 itself after it has been instructed, for example, by a function call of the operating system. While, if a separate entity such as an interceptor is used, the bounded motion data is over path 151 can be transmitted in cases where the pointer object 103 even this limitation manages, the limited movement data also over the path 151 which is also used to send unrestricted motion data. It is also possible that the "active" object, that is in this case option selection object 109 , are responsible for generating the pointer; then the path 150 not required for configuring an inventive system.

If permitted by the operating system used for a particular implementation of the invention, a central event queue (shown as 112 in 1 ) of the system, the is used to route events between programs, threads, objects, etc., for the paths 151 . 151a and 152 be used.

Some operating systems actually support such restriction of pointer movement on a display. A prominent example of this is ^Windows® by Microsoft Inc., which supports such restriction to rectangular areas oriented perpendicular to the edges of the display with the function called "ClipCursor". Before invoking this function, a specific data structure must be configured that contains the necessary information about the selection area, ie the restrictions imposed on the movement of the pointer. Yet another possibility is that the restriction object 110 and the option setting object 109 actually integrated so that it can be said that the option setting object 109 the display of the pointer takes over and the display driver 102 instructs where and how to position and display the pointer.

Depending on the hardware used as a pointing device may also be possible the mobility or sensitivity to limit the device directly to a limitation of Movement of the pointer to achieve within a selection area. For example, if a touch-sensitive Screen considered will, could certain areas of the tactile surface of the same switched off so that no information is forwarded from them becomes.

shape and size of the Selection range (s) are not limited. While accepted in most cases can be that the selection area on which the movement of the Pointer limited will be rectangular, other shapes are possible. While in most cases It can be assumed that the edges of selection areas are parallel are to the limit of the ad, it can probably continue to be that Selection range at a certain angle in terms of limits is arranged.

More concrete embodiments about how to design the options window and the selection area of the options window is to shape and arrange, if below in Given to the remaining figures.

In any case, the result of the objects being configured as described will be that the movement of the pointer, as seen on the display, is limited to the selection area. This significantly improves the operation of the graphical user interface by a user of the computing device, since he is now relieved of actively taking care to hold the pointer within the options window. This is of course of particular use when the selection area is "one-dimensional", ie simply a line on the display, as it is quite complicated to move a pointing device as currently used in the art to exactly to and along such lines. Users tend not only to move a mouse in one direction (in a first dimension), but also to deviate from that direction to move in a second dimension. This is especially evident in current slider solutions. The previous approach adopted was to ignore entries in a different dimension than the one in which the scroll bar is moved, and to move the display of the slider according to movements only in the "right" direction, while disregarding the display of the pointer on the display , Accordingly, there was a situation in which the pointer could be a considerable amount away from the slider while still acting on the slider element; a situation that visually led to confusion of the user. After the user has selected an option, which option may also include an abort or an extension, appropriate information about an option selection or abort option option object is displayed 109 via return path 155 to the property setting object 108 returned, which object 108 accordingly the selected option for the property ( 105 ) and the restriction object 110 instructed to release the restriction, ie to reset the range of allowable pointer movements to the entire display.

Datenobjektpräsentierer 111 , which continuously generates information representing the data objects, can simultaneously display the data objects 105 read again and, provided that the defaulted property 105 also the appearance of the representation of the data object 104 on the display changes, revise the related information and send it to the display driver 102 hand off.

2 gives an overview of the inventive method according to an embodiment thereof. Some of the steps may not belong to all embodiments of the invention, but are shown here for the sake of explanation. Everything related to the inventive system, such. In 1 has been said, applies also to the method of the invention and vice versa, and accordingly mutually referred to.

In step S1, a data object for display on a display is prepared and then displayed. In a preferred embodiment, the representation is also characterized by certain properties co-determined by this data object. For example, according to a property "color" and a particular option set for the color, for example "light green", the color of the representation may be modified according to said property option. For example, a window or other graphical user interface element used to represent the data object may be displayed in light green.

In the next step, in S2, the method waits for activation information indicative of activation of an option trigger, such as an options area, which is part of a graphical user interface element representing the data object. However, as stated above, the option trigger may take on various implementations, and in general relies only on some sort of activation information that is passed to an object implementing that functionality. In 2 is the activation information as being through a pointing device object ( 103 / 110 in 1 ), which forwards information from a pointing device in a specific form. In most graphical user interface implementations, there is an event queue ("event queue", 112 in 1 ), which is used to forward such information as activation information to the correct program objects, functions or components responsible for performing said step S2. Once the activation of the option trigger is detected, the process proceeds to step S3, where a options window representing the option space for a property associated with the option trigger is displayed. The options window may take any suitable form and functionality, either as provided by the common functionality of a graphical user interface or specifically programmed. Examples of an options window have been mentioned above and will continue to be discussed below with respect to FIG 3 to 10 detailed. An example of such an options window is a slider that, as the option space, represents a number of discrete options or a continuous or discontinuous range of values that can be set for the property with which the option trigger is associated.

Furthermore, in step S4, the movement data are limited to certain selection areas. While step S4 is shown consecutively to step S3, it is understood that these two steps may also be performed in parallel or their sequence could be reversed. Both must be completed for the next step to be performed. Im in 2 In the example given, constraint information indicating the fact that the motion data should be restricted as well as coordinates of such particular selection area or ranges is sent to the pointing device object. However, there are several options to implement such behavior. For example, the program objects executing the inventive method may itself restrict the movement data to the selection area while the pointing device object continues to transmit the movement data as it processes for the input generated by the pointing device. Alternatively, another "intercepting" object may be used on motion data from the pointing device object, returning only limited motion data to the inventive method. Within provided to the graphical user interface Microsoft Windows ^® programming environment, there is a function call named ClipCursor that can be invoked to implement this functionality of restricting movement data to a specific selection. When calling ClipCursor, a pointer is included in the call that points to a data structure that has been previously set to the selection area and provides the coordinates to which the constraint motion data is to be limited as the output of the ClipCursor function. Other operating systems may require different solutions.

It It should also be noted that ClipCursor is rectangular Restrict areas motion data that is vertically / horizontally oriented is limited. For implementation z. B. diagonal selection areas must be limited to the Movement data made within the inventive method become. This can be done, for example, by continuous queries the pointer position, testing whether it is outside of a specific area of coordinates that define the selection area, and in cases, where the motion data indicate that the pointing device is outside has moved the selection area, resetting the display of the pointer within within the selection range by calling a function that it allows to reset the pointer position on the display. This must be done continuously until finally one Selection is made.

In any case and more generally, motion data limited in step S5 becomes somehow entered to represent a pointer within the selection area, based on limited Transaction data.

As outlined above, there are numerous options for defining the selection range or ranges in terms of size, shape, positional representation on the display, and in the special spatial relationship to the options window. Typical examples and preferred embodiments are that the selection area overlays the options window or that a side-by-side relationship is used. One skilled in the art will know which approach to correcting the selection area and options of an options window is best suited for a particular embodiment of the invention. For example, and already referring to the 4 and 5 In this regard, a linear, ie one-dimensional arrangement of options as in 4b shown by reference numerals 32a , b, etc., preferably result in a selection area located on one side of this linear array of options within the options window, while a two-dimensional representation of options, as in FIG 5b shown a number of options 32 , preferably leading to a selection area overlaying the options window to allow a pointing device, each option presented 32 to reach.

Returning to 2 For example, in step S6, a selected option is detected by selection information sent from the pointing device object in this particular embodiment, as shown in FIG 2 shown. The selection information will generally include at least one typical selection from the pointing device, such as clicking or releasing a button, and may also include motion data that can be used to determine a current position of the pointer within the selection area and thus the option selected. It is understood that also the most recent motion data or coordinates of a pointer can be stored in step S5, so that the response information will then contain the mere fact that a selection has been made and step S6 then relies on the stored coordinate information to identify a selected option.

After this the selected one Option has been identified, in step S7 a suitable Reaction performed. For example, if it turns out that an option exists Property, as its value, changed has been saved, the newly set option for the property is saved be, d. H. the property is reset. Such new attitude of course independently be made of a statement whether the property itself indeed changed or not, d. H. every time you choose an option, even if she stays the same. In this sense, the invention is understood to the effect that changing the property if it has been changed is, mean, that this property is actually somehow in their value changed has been changed when factually is, with or without a prior test regarding such potential changes.

If the selected one Option is a cancellation or an extension, can take appropriate action be taken as the termination of step S7 without resetting the property of crash detection or providing a further options window, the more options of the total options room or the entire option space when selecting one Extension as an option. If an extension identified as response information can be an extra Process like that in steps S4 to S7 or at least S6 to S7 with newly set movement restrictions within a new one extended selection range.

Finally, in step S8, the restriction imposed on the movement data for the pointing device is canceled by substituting some kind of restriction release information, e.g. Sent to the pointing device program object or interceptor object, or to any internal functionality implementing the constraint. Exemplary shows 2 in that the release information is sent to the pointing device object.

following some of the more graphic aspects of the invention, i. H. representations various data object representations, option windows, selection areas etc. to the use of the inventive approach to outline the control of the pointing device.

These graphic aspects can as the ultimate goal of the inventive concepts as presented above be viewed as they are ultimately what the user is of the system or method according to the invention becomes.

When The general aim of the invention is to provide a new user experience, especially in terms of pop-up windows and sliders by clicking in certain areas of the illustration of data objects on a screen.

• – Ein Anwender klickt oder klick-hält auf einen Optionsbereich auf dem Bildschirm mit dem Taster einer Zeigevorrichtung (z. B. einer Maus).
• – Ein Schieberegler, Menü oder anderes Optionsfenster geht auf und die Bewegung des Zeigers wird auf bestimmte Bereiche dieses Pop-up-Fensters beschränkt, was den Benutzer führt und vermeidet, ihn mit erratischen Zeigerbewegungen zu verwirren.
• – Der Anwender kann dann eine der Optionen/Werte etc., die im Schieberegler, Menü oder einem Optionsfenster dargestellt sind, auswählen. Abhängig davon, ob der Zeigevorrichtungstaster noch gedrückt ist oder nicht, kann die Auswahl durch erneutes Klicken der Option oder durch Bewegen des Zeigers zur Option und Loslassen des Tasters durchgeführt werden.
• – Nachdem die Auswahl bewirkt worden ist, wird der Schieberegler, das Menü oder Optionsfenster vom Bildschirm entfernt und die beschränkte Bewegung des Zeigers wird freigegeben. Weiterhin kann in einigen Fällen ein unmittelbares Feedback zur Auswahl des Anwenders gegeben werden, indem die Darstellung des betroffenen Datenobjekts verändert wird, durch beispielsweise Variieren seiner Farbe, Größe, Umfangsliniendicke etc.

For specific and preferred embodiments of the invention as presently practiced, it can be said that the following sequence of events occurs:

• - A user clicks or clicks on an option area on the screen with the button of a pointing device (eg a mouse).
• - A slider, menu or other options window will pop up and the pointer movement will be restricted to specific areas of this pop-up window, leading the user and avoiding erratic pointer movement confuse.
• - The user can then select one of the options / values etc. displayed in the slider, menu or option window. Depending on whether the pointing device button is still pressed or not, the selection can be made by clicking the option again or by moving the pointer to the option and releasing the button.
• - After the selection has been made, the slider, menu or options window is removed from the screen and the limited movement of the pointer is released. Furthermore, in some cases, immediate feedback may be given to the user's choice by changing the appearance of the affected data object, for example by varying its color, size, perimeter line thickness, etc.

3a shows a "slider box" 10 representing a data object. This box is called Sliderbox because when clicking on the options area 14 (small rectangle inside the slider box) with the pointer 15 a pointing window is opened by the slider type (slider) type as shown in FIG 3b shown, which from the representation of a option space 20 and a selection area 21 . 22 . 23 which actually consists of three different selection sub-areas. A so-called "thumb" 24 is used to display the currently selected option. In this particular case, the option space is a continuous range of values, going from 0 to 10, by a ruler within the representation 20 of the options area. A section 27 of the ruler shows - in addition to the thumb 24 - Graphically a currently set option value, which is supplemented by an inserted number "3", which also indicates the option value. The pointer 15 previously above the options area 14 was now fixed with the representation of the thumb 24 coupled while the motion data is on a vertical line parallel to the selection area 21 are limited.

That is, even if the pointing device is moved, e.g. As a mouse, horizontal, ie left or right, this movement is not in a corresponding movement of the pointer 15 reflected. Instead, in such a case, the pointer becomes 15 remain stationary. Only when the pointing device is moved vertically, ie, up or down, does the pointer move 15 in sync with the thumb 24 , If the top or bottom corner of the selection area 21 is reached by the pointer, as indicated by corresponding movement or position data, switches the program object handling the display of the pointer (display driver 102 ) or instruct the pointer 15 as well as the focus of the selection area 21 to selection area 22 or 23 and also toggles to a different selection area with respect to the restriction on movement data. In this case, the pointer device movements are shown only if they are horizontal and the pointer 15 becomes longitudinal area 22 or 23 emotional. If one of the special options 25 or 26 reached by the pointer, the corresponding action can be effected.

If whatever option is selected will, over the pointing device is selected becomes an appropriate action carried out, Properties are suitably reset and on exit In the process, the options window is removed from the display. The selection can be made in different ways, dependent of it, like the option trigger has been activated. When the option trigger is activated by clicking has been selected by clicking again with the appropriate one Pointing device button are made after the pointer to the option that the user wants to select has been moved. If activation of the option area by clicking and holding with the pointing device However, selecting an option becomes easy by releasing the key.

4 shows a variation of in 3 presented slider. In 4a it is shown that the pointer 15 to another option area 16 has been moved, when activated, as in 4b shown, a slider is shown on the display and the slider box 10 layered; being a different style than the slider of 3a will be shown. In particular, the options window includes 30 This embodiment is an option space representation 31 comprising a plurality of subregions or tiles as shown in FIG 4 are shown as empty, but in a specific embodiment would be able to display icons or colors, etc., depending on which property of the slider box 10 represented data object to be reset. For example, if the above the options area 16 newly adjustable property is a color, the option space can 31 tiling 32a , b, c etc., all of which show different colors. The selection area 33 to which the thumb 24 in sync with the pointer 15 is moved by moving the pointing device up and down, is parallel to the alignment of the tiles 32 within the options room 31 and is used to select one of the options, for example a particular color. When this color is selected, the corresponding property within the data object is reset to the selected option and the slider window is removed from the display. As in 3b are additional selection sub-areas 34 and 35 within the overall selection area, which allow you to select special options such as Cancel, Standard, etc., if the pointer to the corresponding options 36 and 37 moving on the selection sub-sections 34 and 35 are shown.

5 shows a specific embodiment of the handling of selection option 34 (or 37 ). In this particular embodiment, the process described below will be to move the pointer to the selection area 34 and selecting the option 36 triggered. If the pointer 15 and the thumb 24 on the said area 36 to be moved ( 5a ) and the corresponding option is selected (eg by clicking or releasing a button), an expansion window appears 40 which presents more options from the option space than the option space 31 performing slider was able to use as a value grid; please refer 5b , In this case, a new selection area is set, which in this case is two-dimensional, thus essentially the movement of the pointer 15 on inside the rectangle with the numerous tiles 32 , in the 5b are shown is limited. This extension window 40 allows you to select more different options, for example, throughout the option space. A tile 32z is highlighted, which is the tile, by the pointer 15 is superimposed. This gives a clear feedback to the user, which option within the representation within the option space 41 would be selected at a given time. If one of the options 32 is clicked, leads contrary to the behavior of in 4b and 5a Slider will not yet have such an "activated" option for resetting the property, which instead will only be effected when the confirmation area thereafter 42 is clicked. The final choice of an option therefore consists of two clicks, one on an option 32 , the other on the confirmation switch 42 , Alternatively, the user can also decide the extension window 42 get rid of it by hitting the kill button 43 clicks.

6 Figure 8 shows yet another embodiment of the modification to the graphical user interfaces according to the present invention, in that the representation of the data object still contains another option trigger, namely an option area 17 , when activated, a slider 50 is shown, the one option room 51 presents a number of symbol areas 52 instead of, for example, colors, which in the specific embodiment of FIG 6b refer to a property of the data object that displays a presentation style of data that is either contained in or processed by the data object. Such data could be, for example, statistical data and depending on the selection of one of the options 52 The graph showing the data can be switched between different styles, such as pie charts, bar charts, etc.

However, the symbols of the options 52 also correlated with a completely different property, namely the property, which tool is to be used to manipulate data contained in the data object, or relations between a data object and another data object, for manipulating such data. Selecting one of these options will not directly result in resetting the corresponding property of the data object, but, as a next stage, such resetting will result in a corresponding tool being (re) started by a program object monitoring the data objects, or by starting the tool from within the data object itself.

7a shows still another embodiment of the present invention. Here is a so-called navigation button 18 shown. To activate an option trigger, such as the one on the right side of the button 18 option area shown, becomes an option space window 60 shown the button window 18 superimposed, see 7b , In this case, the property to be set is a sorting criterion for a list of meetings that can be represented by a suitable program object. The option space shown shows three options 61 for setting the sort criteria. There are two selection areas 62 and 63 of which the lower ( 63 ) is also used for canceling in this case, provided that the selected option is a cancel, as the user by moving the pointer 15 and the thumb 24 on the option representation 64 can show.

8th Figure 12 shows another type of graphical representation of an options window for setting a property associated with a data object. In this case, the option space includes numeric values ranging from 0 to 10, although others are possible, and the property may be, for example, the relevance of a particular data object to a user evaluating a logical content of the data object. For example, the data object could be a representation of a particular task that needs to be performed, and the relevance associated with this task as one of its properties can represent the opinion of a user of the system regarding the importance of that task. 8a shows the situation when the numerical value is 0, that is, for example, has not yet been set. A window 70 is representative of the slider functionality used to set the numeric value can. The small rectangle 71 representing the numerical value "0" may be considered as an option area that can be activated, but could simply be an initial selection area displayed after activating another option area not shown. Depending on this initial condition, the pushbuttons or a pushbutton can be activated by a pointer 15 displayed pointing device already clicked or not. In any case, the appearance of the window changes to that in 8b situation shown, wherein an additional ruler 52 is shown and the small window 71 at the top border of the window 71 can be increased, which indicates the set numerical value of the property. For example, if a clicked button on the pointing device is released, the numerical value set at that time will be recognized by the system as the concrete option to be set and the property of the data object, such as relevance, will be reset as a value with this new option. In this in 8b In the case shown, the numerical value currently set is "8", while the maximum value also displayed in the options window is "10", which allows the system to better estimate the set value in relation to a theoretical maximum.

Yet another approach to re-setting options of a property for a data object is in 9 shown. Here is within the circle 81 standing in a window 80 is included as in 9 shown a percentage of a property representing a "degree". In 9a Since the percentage is zero, a "0" will be in the middle of circle 81 displayed. When activating an option trigger, eg. B. by clicking in the middle of the circle 81 , becomes a slider 82 displayed as an options window that represents a scale with a percentage of 0 to 100 percent. When pointer 15 and thumbs 24 along a selection area (in this case side-by-side with the ruler 82 is aligned without having its own representation, such as in 7 through areas 62 and 63 on the display), changes the appearance of the option value, ie the percentage of the property within a circle 81 is changed and a displayed number is also changed. How out 9b to see, becomes an inner circle 83 used in black to represent the percentage setting. The inside of the circle 83 Number shown corresponds to the currently on the slider 82 selected percentage. If an option is selected, such as 50 percent, the slider is removed from the display and the property's re-option is then (still) displayed as shown in the figure.

10 FIG. 12 shows yet another embodiment of the present invention, in which an arrow is interposed between two windows shown on the display, which are logically connected, as in FIG 10a shown. For example, the data object may be a logical relationship between these two boxes, represented by the windows, which in turn may also be data objects. The data object representation 90 , ie the arrow, has an option area as option trigger 91 , when activated, a slider 92 is shown as in 10b shown. In this specific case, the by the slider 92 property to be set, for example, the line width of the representation 90 be the said data object. It is understood that other properties of such a "Relations" data object are also due to a slider 92 or by further sliders or other option windows that over more on or near arrow 90 arranged option areas can be activated, can be changed. For example, a color of the arrow can be reset (see 4 ), or a degree of correlation between two by the arrow 90 Connected data objects can be reset.

• – Bei Aktivierung eines Optionsauslösers mit einer Zeigevorrichtung, wobei der Optionsauslöser mit zumindest einer Eigenschaft des dargestellten Datenobjektes assoziiert ist: Öffnen eines Optionsfensters, das einen Optionsraum darstellt, der Optionen für die Eigenschaft an einer Position in Bezug auf eine Position des die Zeigevorrichtung repräsentierenden Zeigers auf der Anzeige umfasst;
• – Beschränken von Bewegungsdaten aus der Zeigevorrichtung auf zumindest einen vorgegebenen Auswahlbereich für das Optionsfenster, das logisch mit dem Optionsraum assoziiert ist; und Beschränken der Bewegung des Zeigers auf die Darstellung des Auswahlbereichs;
• – Wahrnehmung von Bewegung des Zeigers zu einer erwünschten Option des dargestellten Optionsraums und beim Wahrnehmen einer Auswahl der gewünschten Option: falls die gewünschte Option mit einer Änderung in der Eigenschaft des Datenobjektes assoziiert ist, Einstellen der Eigenschaft auf die ausgewählte Option; und Freigeben der Beschränkung von Bewegungsdaten der Zeigevorrichtung, oder, falls die ausgewählte Option ein Abbrechen ist, Freigeben der Beschränkung von Bewegungsdaten aus der Zeigevorrichtung ohne Umstellen der Eigenschaft.

Also, in another aspect, the invention may be directed to a software program and a software program storage device containing a software program, wherein the software program, when running on a computing device, is capable of performing the following method:

• Upon activation of an option trigger with a pointing device, wherein the option trigger is associated with at least one property of the represented data object: opening an options window representing an option space of the options for the property at a position relative to a position of the pointer representing the pointing device the advertisement comprises;
• Restricting movement data from the pointing device to at least one predetermined selection area for the options window logically associated with the option space; and restricting the movement of the pointer to the representation of the selection area;
• - perceiving movement of the pointer to a desired option of the displayed option space and in perceiving a selection of the desired option: if the desired option is associated with a change in the property of the data object, setting the property to the selected option; and releasing the constraint of movement data of the pointing device or, if the selected option is a cancel, releasing the restriction on movement data from the pointing device without changing the characteristic.

In a preferred embodiment There are at least two selections of the software program, from one to choose from is determined by options of the property and one of which is to Choose of abortion, the two selection areas being arranged that they allow a movement of the pointer between them, the an operator of the pointing device substantially continuously appears.

The two selection areas can have different orientations. You can, for example, to each other be arranged at right angles.

Farther can the software program according to the invention be characterized in that when movement data of the pointing device indicate that the pointer has a given limit of a Selection range has reached, the pointer from the selection area, in to which the pointer has reached the boundary, to another predetermined Selection range is switched.

By this approach makes it possible To provide selection areas of complex shapes, such as T-shaped, C-shaped or U-shaped.

Farther The software program may be characterized in that the Representation of option space and selection area in a page-by-page layout are arranged, each coordinate point of the selection area logically associated with an option space option, in side-by-side relationship is displayed in the representation of the option space.

Preferably becomes a selector (sometimes called a "thumb") and a graphic Element of a distinct design) that indicates which option on detection a selection would be selected, synchronous to the movement of the pointer moves.

This Element can have an extra give visual indication as to which option of the option space would be selected if the selection would be effected.

The inventive software program can further characterized in that the selection area at least partially the representation of the option space overlaps and that coordinates of Points of selection that logically associated with options are identical to coordinates of the representation of these options are, making a selection of an option by clicking or tapping can be made on their presentation.

"Overlapping" means here, that the virtual coordinates of the display space for two elements (one of which is a graphic element in general and one a "sensitive" area is) a big one Extent overlap.

The Software program according to the invention may also be characterized in that the option trigger is on Option area within a representation of a data object the display is, and an activation is performed via the pointing device.

Preferably This activation can be a click-stop with the pointing device be in the options area, with the selection of the desired Option is perceived as releasing the pointing device at the Presentation of the desired Option.

The Activation can also be a click with the pointing device in the Option range, where selecting the desired option as a click of the Pointing device perceived at the presentation of the desired option becomes.

at an alternative embodiment the software program according to the invention exists the option trigger in given data from the pointing device.

The inventive software program can also be characterized in that the given data a Click-hold input which exceeds a predetermined holding time, with the desired option by clicking the pointing device on the display again the desired option selected becomes.

The given data can also be a click of another button on the pointing device, which has been pre-assigned to the property and / or the data object, being the desired Option by clicking the pointing device on the presentation again the desired Option selected becomes. Of course it is also possible assign a specific property to each key on a keyboard (even within a specific data object), so the option trigger too the pressing a key on such a keyboard.

If the software program of the invention on a data processing system running, where the pointing device is a touch screen, the options area by touching of the screen in the options area, with the option you want by releasing the touch at the presentation of the desired Option is selected.

The activation of the option trigger can also be a predetermined plurality of fingers touching the touch screen or a gesture of a plurality of fingers.

The Software program according to the invention is preferably characterized in that an option within of the option space is an extension, when you select it from the Selection area a secondary Options window, which has a larger option area which includes more options, shown for selection by the pointing device will, and the restriction movement data is removed from the pointing device, or the movement of the pointer to at least one predetermined selection area of the secondary Option window limited becomes.

Farther the extension is preferably through another selection area accessible, the yourself from the selection area for distinguishes the option room.

The Data object is preferably a logical entity or the strength of a logical connection between at least two entities.

At the Software program according to the invention Preferably, the property is a significance of said entity or logical Connection.

The Representation of the data object on the display preferably changes depending on the selected one Option of the property.

A set option of a property can preferably be internal in Data object to be saved without changes in the appearance of the Data object.

The inventive software program is in a preferred embodiment characterized in that the options window has a slider, a dialog box, a menu box or a value field.

Of the Selection area is preferably substantially linear and the pointer movement representation is preferably a linear, and ideally linear and limited vertical movement.

Farther The software program can also be characterized in that at least two selection areas, both essentially linear are arranged in a reciprocal relationship, so that The pointer movement representation is based on two linear movements limited.

Claims (37)

Method for setting a property of the on a display ( 100 ) data object ( 103 ) on controlling a pointing device input, comprising the steps of: - activating an option trigger ( 14 . 16 . 17 . 18 ), where the option trigger ( 14 . 16 . 17 . 18 . 81 . 91 ) with at least one property ( 105 ) of the represented data object ( 104 ): opening an options window ( 60 ), which has an option room ( 20 . 106 . 107 ), the options for the property ( 105 ) at a position with respect to a position of the pointing device ( 101 ) representing the pointer ( 15 ) on the display ( 100 ); Restricting movement data from the pointing device ( 101 ) to at least one predetermined selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) for the options window logically associated with the option space; and limiting the movement of the pointer ( 15 ) on the presentation of the selection area or the selection areas ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ); - perception of movement of the pointer ( 15 ) to a desired option of the illustrated option space ( 20 . 106 . 107 ) and when selecting a desired option: if the desired option with a change in property ( 105 ) of the data object ( 104 ), setting the property ( 105 ) to the selected option; and releasing the restriction on movement data of the pointing device ( 101 ), or, if the selected option is a cancel, releasing the restriction on movement data from the pointing device ( 101 ) without changing the property ( 104 ). Method according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises at least two selection regions ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ), one of which is used to select property options ( 105 ) and one of which is for selecting the abort, the two selection areas ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) are arranged so that they move the pointer ( 15 ) between them, which can be used by an operator of the pointing device ( 101 ) appears substantially continuous. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that the two selection areas ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) have different orientations. Method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that when movement data of the pointing device ( 101 ) indicate that the pointer ( 15 ) a predetermined border area of a selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ), the pointer has moved from the selection region in which the pointer has reached the boundary region to another predetermined selection region ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) is switched. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the representation of the option space ( 20 . 106 . 107 ) and the selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) are arranged in a side-by-side layout, each coordinate point of the selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) logically with an option space option ( 20 . 106 . 107 ), which is shown in side-by-side relationship in the representation of the option space. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that a selection element ( 24 ) (Thumb), which indicates which option would be selected upon detection, in synchronization with the movement of the pointer. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) at least partially overlaps the representation of the option space and that coordinates of points of the selection areas ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) that are logically associated with options are the same as coordinates of the representation of these options so that a selection of an option can be made by clicking or tapping on its appearance. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the option trigger an option area ( 14 . 16 . 17 . 18 . 91 ) within a representation ( 10 ) of a data object ( 104 ) on the display, and activation via the pointing device ( 103 ) is carried out. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that the activation is a click-hold with the pointing device ( 103 ) in the options area ( 14 . 16 . 17 . 18 . 91 ), wherein the selection of the desired option is perceived as releasing the pointing device ( 101 ) on the presentation of the desired option ( 32z . 52 ). A method according to claim 8, characterized in that the activation is also a click with the pointing device ( 103 ) in the options area ( 14 . 16 . 17 . 18 . 91 ), wherein the selection of the desired option as a click of the pointing device ( 101 ) on the presentation of the desired option ( 32z , 52 ) is perceived. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the option trigger in predetermined data from the pointing device ( 101 ) consists. A method according to claim 11, characterized in that the predetermined data is a click-hold input exceeding a predetermined hold time, the desired option being repeated by clicking the pointing device ( 101 ) on the presentation of the desired option ( 32z . 52 ) is selected. A method according to claim 11, characterized in that the predetermined data is a click on another button on the pointing device ( 101 ), which has been pre-assigned to the property and / or the data object, the desired option being selected by clicking the pointing device again on the display of the desired option (FIG. 32z . 52 ) is selected. Method according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the pointing device ( 101 ) is a mouse or a trackball. Method according to one the claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the pointing device is a touch Screen is. Method according to claim 15, characterized in that the option area ( 14 . 16 . 17 . 18 . 91 ) by touching the screen ( 101 ) is activated in the option area, whereby the desired option is canceled by releasing the touch on the display of the desired option ( 32z . 52 ) is selected. A method according to claim 15, characterized in that the option trigger is a predetermined plurality of fingers representing the touch screen (15). 100 ), or a gesture of a plurality of fingers. Method according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that an option within the option space is an extension ( 36 ), when selecting it from the selection area ( 34 ) a secondary options window ( 40 ), which has a larger option area containing more options for selection by the pointing device ( 101 ), and the restriction of movement data from the pointing device ( 101 ), or the movement of the pointer is restricted to at least one predetermined selection area of the secondary options window. Method according to claim 18, characterized in that the extension ( 36 ) through another selection area ( 34 ), which is different from the selection area ( 33 ) for the option space for options for setting the property. Method according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the data object ( 104 ) is a logical entity or the strength of a logical connection between at least two entities. Method according to claim 20, characterized in that the property ( 105 ) is a significance of said entity or logical connection. Method according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the representation ( 10 . 80 . 90 ) of the data object ( 104 ) on the display, preferably depending on the selected option of the property ( 104 ) changes. Method according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that a set option of a property ( 105 ) is stored internally in the data object, without changes in the representation ( 10 . 80 . 90 ) of the data object. Method according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the options window has a slider, a dialog box, a menu box ( 60 ) or a value field ( 41 ). Method according to one of claims 1 to 23, characterized in that the selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) is substantially linear and the pointer motion representation is limited to linear motion. Method according to one the claims 1 to 25, characterized in that at least two selection areas, which are both essentially linear, in a reciprocal manner Relations are arranged so that the pointer movement representation on limited to two linear movements. System for setting a property of a on a display ( 100 ) data object ( 104 ) via controlling a pointing device input, comprising: a property setting object ( 108 ) for receiving activation information indicating the activation of an option trigger, the option trigger having at least one property ( 105 ) of the represented data object ( 104 ) is associated; to send information about the property ( 105 ) to an option selection object ( 108 ); and if the selected option changes with a property change ( 105 ) of the data object ( 104 ), setting the property in the data object ( 104 ) to the selected option; where the option selection object ( 109 ) for generating display information for an options window displayed on the display ( 100 ) at a position with respect to a position of the pointing device ( 101 ) representing the pointer ( 15 ), which contains information about an option space that includes options for the property, for sending constraint information that contains movement data from the pointing device ( 101 ) to at least one predetermined selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) of the options window, to a restriction object ( 110 ), for receiving movement data and selection information from the restriction object ( 110 ); and to send, while listening to the selection of an option, information on the selected option to the property setting object ( 108 ), or, if the option selected is a cancel, to send abort information indicating that the property ( 105 ) can not be changed; and for sending restriction release information to the restriction object ( 110 ) after selection or abort, the restriction object ( 110 ) for transmitting, in response to the received restriction information, restricted motion data, and selection information to the option selection object ( 109 ) and to a pointer representation object ( 102 ) for generating pointer presentation movement information that is based on the representation of the selection area ( 21 . 22 . 23 . 33 . 34 . 35 . 62 . 63 ) are used. System according to claim 27, characterized in that the pointer is replaced by a pointer-driver object ( 103 ), which inputs from a pointing device ( 101 ) processed by the restriction object ( 101 ) be modified or overwritten or passed through; for restricting movement data from the pointing device. System according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that the restriction object ( 110 ) into the pointer driver object ( 103 ) is integrated. System according to one of claims 27 to 29, characterized by means for mechanically or electrically restricting the movement of the pointing device ( 101 ). System according to one of claims 27 to 30, characterized in that the pointing device ( 101 ) is a mouse or a trackball. System according to one of claims 27 to 30, characterized in that the pointing device is touch screen ( 100 ). System according to one of Claims 27 to 32, characterized by a data object presenter ( 111 ) for reading out information about the data object ( 104 ) and generating information regarding the representation of the data object ( 104 ) on the display ( 100 ); taking into account the set options for at least one property defining or modifying the representation of said data object. System according to one of claims 27 to 33, characterized in that the option selection object ( 109 ) and the restriction object ( 110 ) are preferably designed to store information through an event queue ( 112 ) of a computer system implementing the system. System according to one of claims 27 to 34, characterized in that an option within the option space is an extension ( 36 ), the system further comprising an extension selection object configured to select the extension (FIG. 36 ) on the selection area ( 34 ) a secondary options window ( 40 ) representing another option space comprising more options for selection by the pointing device and adapted to release the restriction of movement data from the pointing device or the movement of the pointer to at least one predetermined selection area for the secondary options window ( 40 ). System according to one the claims 27 to 35, characterized in that the system designed for it is, the method of the claims 1 to 26. Software program product stored in a program storage device is stored, wherein the software program product in the expiration on a computer device is able to carry out the method of one of claims 1 to 26.