CAD Element Selection via Cursor Distance Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer-aided design (CAD) systems require users to make precise mouse movements to select elements or handles, leading to inefficient interaction, especially when multiple elements are close together or require significant cursor displacement.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented process that calculates and compares distances between a cursor and displayed elements, allowing selection based on the closest proximity without needing the cursor to be directly over the element, eliminating the need for precise mouse movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the user moves the mouse to place the cursor directly over the element for selection, then the element can be selected, but numerous mouse movements are required and precise positioning is difficult when elements are close together
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (distance calculation and comparison system) that mediates between the user's cursor position and the element selection. Instead of requiring direct cursor-over-element positioning, the system calculates distances from the cursor to multiple elements and identifies the closest one, serving as a mediator that translates approximate cursor positioning into accurate element selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary distance calculations for all displayed elements relative to the cursor position before the user actually selects an element. This preliminary action of pre-calculating and comparing distances allows the system to identify the intended target element in advance, eliminating the need for precise cursor positioning and reducing interaction time.
2Ease of operation
If picking zones are provided to extend beyond elements, then selection becomes easier, but the zones are difficult to define for dynamically positioned elements in CAD models
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the selection parameter from cursor position relative to element boundaries (requiring picking zones) to cursor distance relative to element positions. By using distance calculations as the selection criterion instead of spatial overlap, the system eliminates the need to define and manage picking zones for dynamically positioned CAD elements.
3Measurement precision
If the cursor must be placed precisely over the element, then accurate selection is achieved, but user effort and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical precision requirement (cursor must be physically over the element) with a computational system that calculates and compares distances. This substitution of mechanical precision with computational analysis allows approximate cursor positioning to achieve accurate element selection, significantly improving productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Several elements are displayed on a computer display. The user is provided with a haptic device, for moving a cursor over the display. Distances between the cursor and the various elements are computed; the element with the smallest distance is highlighted on the display. When the user moves the haptic device, the identified element is changed, according to the distance between the cursor and the various elements. The user selects the identified element by actuating a select button. The invention makes it possible for the user to select one of the displayed elements, without having to move the cursor over the element to be selected. No prior knowledge of the shape of the elements is required for carrying out the selection process.