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WO2000055711A1 - Mise en oeuvre d'une fonction d'assistance informatique et systeme a cet effet - Google Patents

Mise en oeuvre d'une fonction d'assistance informatique et systeme a cet effet Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2000055711A1
WO2000055711A1 PCT/AU2000/000214 AU0000214W WO0055711A1 WO 2000055711 A1 WO2000055711 A1 WO 2000055711A1 AU 0000214 W AU0000214 W AU 0000214W WO 0055711 A1 WO0055711 A1 WO 0055711A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
help
window
main window
help system
computer
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/AU2000/000214
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Damien O'neill
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to AU32620/00A priority Critical patent/AU3262000A/en
Publication of WO2000055711A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000055711A1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/048—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
    • G06F3/0487—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser
    • G06F3/0489—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using dedicated keyboard keys or combinations thereof
    • G06F3/04895—Guidance during keyboard input operation, e.g. prompting
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING OR CALCULATING; COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F9/00—Arrangements for program control, e.g. control units
    • G06F9/06—Arrangements for program control, e.g. control units using stored programs, i.e. using an internal store of processing equipment to receive or retain programs
    • G06F9/44—Arrangements for executing specific programs
    • G06F9/451—Execution arrangements for user interfaces
    • G06F9/453—Help systems

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a help system for a computer having a display screen, and to a method of implementing such a help system.
  • the present invention relates to a help system and to a method of implementing a help system wherein a help window is provided in a display format simultaneously with the displayed main window, whereby the main window is capable of being viewed by a user.
  • the help window is positioned below, above, left or right of the main window.
  • help system Various 'help' systems are known, which are designed to assist users in learning various functions of particular applications.
  • a user is required to discontinue the particular action being undertaken, select the help system, read the various help instructions, and then, remember the instructional information and, after exiting the help system, execute the instructed actions.
  • help system This presently known form of help system clearly has significant limitations as it is often difficult for a user to understand, and then recall and execute the help instructions.
  • a user typically selects such help system several times whilst learning how to execute a particular application.
  • a user sometimes prints the textual help information such that it can be referred to multiple times whilst executing the application.
  • the present invention seeks to provide a method of implementing a help system wherein a main application window and a help window may be simultaneously displayed such that a user may continue to execute the main application whilst the help information is simultaneously displayed.
  • the present invention also seeks to provide a method of implementing a help system wherein the help information is not limited to providing textual instructional information in a static format.
  • the present invention provides a method of implementing a help system in a computer having a display screen, including the steps of: detecting user selection of said help system; determining the original display format of the main window corresponding to the particular task for which the help system is selected; adjusting the display format of said main window and simultaneously displaying a help window adjacent thereto, wherein, the resultant display format of said main window and said help window is substantially similar to the original display format of said main window.
  • said display format includes size, shape and/or position format of a respective window on said display screen.
  • said resultant main window is 'compressed' or 'shrunk ' in at least one dimension, the dimension of the resultant main window and help window being of substantially similar size to respective dimensions of the original main window.
  • said resultant main window display is of similar physical dimension to said original main window, and is provided with a 'scroll bar' for user display of any selection portion of said main window, said help window overlaying a portion of said main window.
  • said help window is displayed on said display screen either below, above, left or right of said main window.
  • said help window provides help information in a step-by-step manner, j -
  • said help window provides said help information in t he form of a "screencam' movie or wizard tool.
  • said main window is readjusted to its original size, shape and position or other display format.
  • the present invention provides a help system for a computer having a display screen, including: means for user selection of said help system; means for determining the original display format of a main window corresponding to a particular task for which the help system is selected: means for adjusting the display format of said main window; and, means for simultaneously displaying a help window adjacent to said main window; characterised in that the resultant display format of said main window and said help window are substantially similar to the original display format of said original main window.
  • said display format includes size, shape and/ or position format of a window on said display screen.
  • said main window is adjusted by being 'compressed' or 'shrunk' in at least one dimension, whereby the dimension of the resultant main window and help window is of substantial size to the respective dimension of the original main window.
  • said resultant main window display is of similar physical dimension to said original main window, but is provided with a 'scroll bar ' for user display of a selected portion of said main window whilst displaying said help window overlaying a portion of said main window.
  • said help window is displayed on said display screen either below, above, left or right of said main window.
  • said help window provides help information in a step-by-step manner, whereby as each task is completed, the next information field is displayed.
  • said help window provides said help information in the form of a 'screencam ' movie or wizard tool.
  • said main window is readjusted to its original display format.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates the display screen of a computer with the help system implemented, wherein the main window and the help window are simultaneously displayed on the display screen, the help window positioned below the main window;
  • Fig. 2 illustrates, in Figs. 2(a) and 2(b), a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 3 illustrates, in Figs. 3(a) and 3(b), an alternative embodiment of the invention
  • Fig. 4 illustrates, in Figs. 4(a) and 4(b), various screens showing the ability to select various modules and tasks;
  • Fig. 5 details of the action bar of the help system, and shows details of the various options available. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiment(s)
  • the display screen 1 of the present invention having the help system implemented in accordance with the present invention comprises two parts.
  • the upper part show a main window 2, and the lower part shows a help window 3, positioned underneath the main window 2, such that both the main window 2 and help window 3 are simultaneously displayed on the display screen of the computer.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates a schematic representation of an embodiment of the invention, wherein the height dimension of the main window is adjusted in size by being 'compressed' or 'shrunk' in that dimension, such that it is able to be fully viewed by a user, and, a help window is then provided underneath the main window.
  • the overall physical dimensions, i.e. the height and width of the resultant window combination in Fig. 2(b) is substantially the same as the physical dimension of the original main window of Fig. 2(a).
  • Fig. 3 illustrates a schematic representation of an alternative embodiment of the invention, wherein, instead of the main window being 'compressed' or 'shrunk', a 'scroll bar' 5 is provided such that the entire main window is still viewable by the user, and the help window is provided over the main window. As such, the user is still able to view any part of the main window whilst viewing the help window, to still achieve the advantages of the present invention.
  • a user may select between using either the display format of Fig. 2(b) or Fig. 3(b), or, be provided with the ability to adjust the display format between that of Fig. 2(b) and Fig. 3(b), as desired. This may be facilitated by clicking a 'full screen' or like icon.
  • various tasks can be selected in a variety of conventional manners.
  • the module that the user wishes to utilise may be selected, for example, selecting a e-mail or the like. Then the task which is desired to be used is selected, and once the "show task help" button is selected, the action bar 3, as shown in Fig. 5 will be displayed across the bottom of the screen, in a manner as shown in Fig. 1.
  • the user may then follow the instructions in the text box. As the user is systematically displayed with the instructional information and performs the task on the main screen 2, the user may click on the "next step” button to display the next step in the task. Once completed, the user may click on the "exit” button, at which time the action bar will disappear from the screen display, and the main window 2 will be resized and shaped, such that it again consumes its original size and shape, typically covering the whole of the display screen of the computer.
  • a "Guide Me Wizard” option may explain the task, field by field, and as the user completes the task the next set of instructional information is provided in action bar 3. In this function, the user is given an in-depth explanation of each step as it is actually performed.
  • a "show-me” option is mainly for those who just want a "refresher” on how to do a task. It may typically show a short screencam movie of how to do a task. A more “detailed” option may provide the user with additional information about the task. It may typically include short cuts and a glossary of terms associated with the task.
  • a "print” option is also provided if a user wishes to produce a hard copy of the steps needed 5 for successful task completion.
  • the present invention provides a unique help system for a computer having a display screen and to a method for implementing such a help system, whereby the help window is positioned conveniently below, above, left or right of the 10 simultaneously displayed main window.
  • a task is selected by clicking on the task.
  • This option then passes parameters to the application to be displayed.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Software Systems (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Digital Computer Display Output (AREA)
  • User Interface Of Digital Computer (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un procédé visant à la mise en oeuvre d'un système d'assistance dans un ordinateur. A cet effet, l'utilisateur commence par désigner une fonction d'assistance. Le procédé consiste alors à ajuster les dimensions, la forme et la position d'une fenêtre principale, tout en affichant contre cette dernière une fenêtre d'assistance. L'affichage résultant est de préférence semblable à la fenêtre principale d'origine quant à ses dimensions et à sa forme.
PCT/AU2000/000214 1999-03-17 2000-03-16 Mise en oeuvre d'une fonction d'assistance informatique et systeme a cet effet Ceased WO2000055711A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU32620/00A AU3262000A (en) 1999-03-17 2000-03-16 System and method for implementing a computer help function

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AUPP9268A AUPP926899A0 (en) 1999-03-17 1999-03-17 System and method for implementing a computer help function
AUPP9268 1999-03-17

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000055711A1 true WO2000055711A1 (fr) 2000-09-21

Family

ID=3813465

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2000/000214 Ceased WO2000055711A1 (fr) 1999-03-17 2000-03-16 Mise en oeuvre d'une fonction d'assistance informatique et systeme a cet effet

Country Status (2)

Country Link
AU (1) AUPP926899A0 (fr)
WO (1) WO2000055711A1 (fr)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002027452A3 (fr) * 2000-09-27 2003-03-13 Siemens Ag Procede assiste par ordinateur pour le parametrage d'un appareil commande par programme enregistre
WO2003102912A3 (fr) * 2002-06-04 2005-01-27 Sap Aktiengesellscahft Affichage de vues sur des ecrans d'ordinateurs
WO2006037545A3 (fr) * 2004-10-08 2006-10-19 Nokia Corp Terminal de communication mobile presentant une interface d'utilisateur amelioree et procede associe
EP1346284A4 (fr) * 2000-11-30 2007-03-28 Wizard Technologies Llc Procedes et appareils de mise au point de logiciels d'installation

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0820002A1 (fr) * 1996-07-17 1998-01-21 International Business Machines Corporation Fenêtre à multi-carreaux intégrant la reconfiguration des espaces de travail
US5715415A (en) * 1996-06-05 1998-02-03 Microsoft Corporation Computer application with help pane integrated into workspace
US5754176A (en) * 1995-10-02 1998-05-19 Ast Research, Inc. Pop-up help system for a computer graphical user interface
US5825356A (en) * 1996-03-18 1998-10-20 Wall Data Incorporated Help system with semitransparent window for disabling controls
US5933140A (en) * 1997-06-30 1999-08-03 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Child window containing context-based help and a miniaturized web page
US6008809A (en) * 1997-09-22 1999-12-28 International Business Machines Corporation Apparatus and method for viewing multiple windows within a dynamic window

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5754176A (en) * 1995-10-02 1998-05-19 Ast Research, Inc. Pop-up help system for a computer graphical user interface
US5825356A (en) * 1996-03-18 1998-10-20 Wall Data Incorporated Help system with semitransparent window for disabling controls
US5715415A (en) * 1996-06-05 1998-02-03 Microsoft Corporation Computer application with help pane integrated into workspace
EP0820002A1 (fr) * 1996-07-17 1998-01-21 International Business Machines Corporation Fenêtre à multi-carreaux intégrant la reconfiguration des espaces de travail
US5933140A (en) * 1997-06-30 1999-08-03 Sun Microsystems, Inc. Child window containing context-based help and a miniaturized web page
US6008809A (en) * 1997-09-22 1999-12-28 International Business Machines Corporation Apparatus and method for viewing multiple windows within a dynamic window

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002027452A3 (fr) * 2000-09-27 2003-03-13 Siemens Ag Procede assiste par ordinateur pour le parametrage d'un appareil commande par programme enregistre
EP1346284A4 (fr) * 2000-11-30 2007-03-28 Wizard Technologies Llc Procedes et appareils de mise au point de logiciels d'installation
WO2003102912A3 (fr) * 2002-06-04 2005-01-27 Sap Aktiengesellscahft Affichage de vues sur des ecrans d'ordinateurs
US7187376B2 (en) 2002-06-04 2007-03-06 Sap Aktiengesellschaft Displaying views on computer screens
WO2006037545A3 (fr) * 2004-10-08 2006-10-19 Nokia Corp Terminal de communication mobile presentant une interface d'utilisateur amelioree et procede associe
RU2363033C2 (ru) * 2004-10-08 2009-07-27 Нокиа Корпорейшн Мобильный терминал связи с улучшенным пользовательским интерфейсом и способ управления пользовательским интерфейсом

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AUPP926899A0 (en) 1999-04-15

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