WIMP Interface

WIMP Root

The WIMP Root is the base of the widget tree. It manages state related to the WIMP interface, such as enforcing modal state.

UI Frames

UI Frames are ProdUI's top-level containers. They are all second generation widgets, meaning that they are direct children of the Root widget.

Up to one UI Frame may be selected by the Root at any given time. Keyboard focus is typically routed to the selected UI Frame and its descendant widgets.

There are two kinds of UI Frame: Workspaces and Window Frames.

Workspace Frames

A Workspace fills most (or all) of the application window. There can be up to one active (awake) workspace at a time, and any number of dormant workspaces.

Window Frames

Window Frames are movable rectangles that appear over the Workspace. There can be any number of Window Frames, and they support the following configurations:

  • Modal: the topmost modal frame blocks interaction with all other frames until dismissed.

  • Frame-blocking: a window frame can block interaction with one other frame until dismissed.

  • Sorting levels: "low", "normal", and "high"

  • Workspace association: When a Workspace is dormant, so too are any of its associated Window Frames. A Window Frame that is unassociated will appear even if no Workspace is active.

  • Hidden: Active Window Frames can be placed out of sight while still running.