Method and apparatus for enhancing computer-user selection of computer-displayed objects through dynamic selection area and constant visual feedback

An apparatus for categorizing computer-displayed objects comprising:

• means for determining which computer-displayed object is closest to a user-controlled displayed cursor;
• and
• means for enabling said closest computer-displayed object to be selected by said computer user without regard to whether said cursor is within a predetermined distance of said closest computer displayed object.

A method in which placement of a user-controlled cursor within an object selection area coupled with a selection action by said user will select a computer-displayed object within said object selection area, said method comprising the steps of:

• determining which of a plurality of computer-displayed objects is closest to said computer user controlled cursor;
• and
• defining said object selection area based upon the distance of said closest computer-displayed object with respect to other computer-displayed objects of said plurality of computer-displayed objects.

An apparatus in which placement of a user-controlled cursor within an object selection area coupled with a selection action by said user will select a computer-displayed object within said object selection area, said apparatus comprising:

• means for determining which of a plurality of computer-displayed objects is closest to said computer user controlled cursor;
• and
• means for defining said object selection area based upon the distance of said closest computer-displayed object with respect to other computer-displayed objects of said plurality of computer-displayed objects.

A method comprising the steps of:

• determining which object of a plurality of objects appearing on a computer display is closest to a computer cursor;
• and
• enabling said object to be selected without regard to whether said object is within a predetermined distance from said cursor.

An apparatus comprising:

• means for determining which object of a plurality of objects appearing on a computer display is closest to a computer cursor;
• and
• means for enabling said object to be selected without regard to whether said object is within a predetermined distance from said cursor.

A method comprising the steps of:

• determining the distance between graphic objects appearing on a display screen and a cursor appearing on said display screen without regard to whether said objects are within a predetermined distance from said cursor;
• and
• visually distinguishing a graphic object determined to have the least distance from said cursor.

An apparatus comprising:

• means for determining the distance between graphic objects appearing on a display screen and a cursor appearing on said display screen without regard to whether said objects are within a predetermined distance from said cursor;
• and
• means for visually distinguishing a graphic object determined to have the least distance from said cursor.