Display of supplementary information on a graphical user interface

摘要

Disclosed are method and apparatus for displaying supplementary information on a graphical user interface. A request for supplementary information is received. The supplementary information is retrieved and displayed in a reserved display field in a graphical user interface. The reserved display field may be configured by a user to adapt to specific applications, but remains stationary throughout the user session. The reserved display field does not obstruct any other display fields in the graphical user interface. A request for supplementary information may be generated by using a mouse to first position a cursor over an active display element. A request for supplementary information associated with the active display element may be generated by clicking the mouse, or by holding the cursor stationary for a time interval greater than a threshold dwell time.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
receiving a request to activate a reserved display field, wherein the reserved display field is reserved for presenting supplementary information associated with a plurality of display elements during a user session, the plurality of display elements comprising text elements, control keys for operating a video player, icons devoid of associated text, and multimedia content; determining a location on a webpage for presenting the reserved display field, wherein the location does not impinge upon the plurality of display elements presented on the webpage; presenting the reserved display field such that the reserved display field remains stationary at the location on the webpage during the user session; receiving a request for supplementary information associated with an active display element of the plurality of display elements presented on the webpage; presenting the supplementary information on the webpage, within the reserved display field such that the plurality of display elements and the reserved display field remain unobstructed on the webpage, the supplementary information comprising help information associated with the active display element; and receiving user input, via a virtual function key, to turn off and turn on display of the supplementary information presented within the reserved display field.