Patent ID: 6356284
Filing Date: 2002-03-12
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A graphical user interface (GUI) for display within a display device of a computer, wherein the computer includes an operating system executing therewithin, and wherein a desktop is displayed within the display device by the operating system, the GUI comprising:means for displaying a first panel within the desktop, wherein the first panel comprises a display area configured to display information associated with an application program executing within the computer; means for movably displaying a second panel within the desktop, wherein the second panel is positioned beneath the first panel and is movably associated therewith between a hidden position beneath the first panel and an exposed position adjacent the first panel; at least one GUI control on at least one of the first and second panels, wherein the at least one GUI control is configured to control display of information associated with the application program within the first panel display area, wherein the at least one GUI control is functionally independent of the operating system, and wherein the at least one GUI control is configured to inherit at least one style property from the operating system; and means for moving the second panel between the hidden and exposed positions in response to user input.