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Multiple display pointers for computer graphical user interfaces

  • US 5,699,534 A
  • Filed: 04/12/1996
  • Issued: 12/16/1997
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/15/1994
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. A method of providing multiple display pointers for a computer system having a host processor, a display device, and at least one pointer control device that can be actuated when a display pointer is located on a designated display feature in an application, the method comprising the steps of:

  • permitting a computer system user to define and identify multiple display pointers that all can be controlled by the user through the display device;

    permitting the computer system user to designate a currently active display pointer from among the multiple display pointers such that moving the pointer control device causes movement of only the active display pointer;

    permitting the computer system user to designate a different one of the multiple display pointers as the active display pointer; and

    associating each display pointer with a pointer context that comprises the current application title and pointer location within that application for the associated display pointer;

    further including the steps of;

    permitting a computer system user to define at least one of the multiple display pointers to be an anchored pointer that remains fixed in its respective location as the user opens and closes applications;

    associating each anchored pointer with one or more user actions, in addition to a pointer context; and

    permitting the user to select an anchored pointer such that the user actions associated with the selected anchored pointer are automatically executed.

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