Dragger Handle Visibility in Graphical Development Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing computer-aided design tools face challenges in maintaining visibility of virtual gripping tools during perspective alterations, such as zooming or shifting views, which can obscure the virtual objects being manipulated.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that provides a graphical user interface (GUI) with manipulable graphical objects and a dragger handle, initially displayed on edges or vertices, which can be repositioned based on user input, such as key-press signals, mouse clicks, or touch inputs, to remain visible and accessible without obstructing the viewport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the dragger handle is fixed onto the virtual object, then the manipulation function is maintained, but the dragger handle becomes obfuscated or moves away from view when perspective is altered
Solution Approach 1:
The dragger handle transitions from a fixed position on the virtual object to a dynamic, independently controllable position in the viewport. The handle can be summoned to a separate location that remains visible when the virtual object moves or changes perspective, resolving the contradiction between maintaining manipulation function and ensuring visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the dragger handle from the virtual object, treating them as independent elements. The handle can be positioned separately in the viewport while maintaining its association with the virtual object's manipulation, allowing both the object and handle to be visible simultaneously.
2Ease of operation
If the dragger handle is displayed on the virtual object, then the association between handle and object is clear, but the handle may obstruct the viewport or become invisible
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary positioning mechanism that allows the dragger handle to be associated with the virtual object while being displayed at a separate, non-obstructing location in the viewport. This mediator position maintains the functional relationship without the visual obstruction.
3Ease of operation
If the dragger handle is repositioned separately from the virtual object, then visibility is improved, but the initial clear association between handle and object is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The dragger handle system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can be displayed on the virtual object for clear association, or summoned to a separate position for visibility. This multi-functionality allows the same handle to adapt to different operational needs without increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations described herein relate to methods, systems, and computer-readable media for computer-assisted graphical development. In some implementations, a computer-implemented method includes providing a GUI that includes at least one manipulable graphical object having one or more edges or vertices and a virtual pivot point, providing a dragger handle at a first position in the GUI, the dragger handle operable via user input to alter one or more of: a size, location, scale, or characteristic of the at least one manipulable graphical object based on the virtual pivot point, wherein the dragger handle is at least initially displayed on at least one of the one or more edges or vertices, receiving a request to summon the dragger handle, and, in response to the request, moving positioning the dragger handle to a different position in the GUI separate from the at least one manipulable graphical object.