Silicon Graphics, Incorporated

Kim J Vicente

William A Buxton

Beverly L Harrison

A system and method for providing a graphical user interface (GUI) for maximized user performance and system efficiency. The GUI utilizes variable-transparency to merge images (or layers) of objects onto a graphical display. For example, 'see through' objects (such as menus, tool palettes, windows, dialogue boxes, or screens) are superimposed over similar objects or different background content (such as text, wire-frame or line art images, or solid images). A critical factor in the usability of variably-transparent GUI is the effect of visual interference on user performance. That is, the interaction between superimposed objects of varying types measurably alters performance to unacceptable levels in terms of user selection error rates and response times. The present invention provides a system and method of using optimal threshold transparency levels for user performance optimization. Correspondingly, the present invention does not substantially rely on visual enhancement techniques within the transparency ranges delineated by the optimal thresholds, thereby providing enhanced system efficiency. Additionally, the present invention provides hybrid windows having both variably-transparent regions and opaque regions for further performance gains.

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Etobicoke, Canada

Kim J Vicente