Graphic Layout Editor Group Replication via Directional Cursor Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphic-based layout editing tools are cumbersome when replicating large numbers of layout objects that need to follow specific design rules, as they require individual replication rather than simultaneous replication of groups with similar properties.
Innovation Solution
A graphic-based layout editing tool that allows users to select a starting group of layout objects via directional and continuous cursor movement, retrieving metadata and design rules to replicate and expand the group simultaneously, enabling efficient replication of layout objects with shared properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If layout objects are replicated one individual object at a time following design rules, then each object can be precisely controlled to meet design requirements, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming when the number of objects to be replicated is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual layout objects into a single selectable group that can be replicated together. The system allows users to define a starting group of one or more layout objects and automatically replicates the entire group simultaneously, maintaining design rule compliance while dramatically improving replication efficiency for large numbers of objects
Solution Approach 2:
The replication system is designed to handle both individual layout objects and groups of objects with similar properties through a unified interface. The same replication mechanism works whether replicating a single object or multiple objects simultaneously, providing universal functionality that adapts to different replication needs
2Productivity
If a graphic-based layout editor enables selection and automatic replication of a starting group of layout objects to create an expanded group simultaneously, then replication efficiency is greatly improved, but the system complexity increases to handle group selection and metadata retrieval
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically retrieves metadata and design rules associated with the selected layout objects without requiring manual intervention. When a user selects a starting group of layout objects, the system self-service retrieves the necessary information and performs the replication operation autonomously, reducing the need for complex user interfaces and manual configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically retrieving metadata and design rules associated with the selected layout objects before executing the replication operation. This preliminary retrieval of information prepares the system for efficient replication while managing complexity through automated information gathering rather than requiring users to manually specify all parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A new approach is proposed to support layout objects selection and replication via a graphic-based layout editing tool running on a host. Specifically, the graphic-based layout editing tool presents a plurality of layout objects in a layout on a display of the host and enables a user to directionally and continuously move a cursor across the layout along a single line, wherein the single line intersects with and selects a starting group of one or more layout objects. The graphic-based layout editing tool then retrieves metadata and/or design rules associated with the starting group selected layout objects and to create an expanded group of layout objects by replicating and including one or more of the layout objects in the starting group selected layout objects. The graphic-based layout editing tool then presents the expanded group of layout objects on the display following the layout objects replication operation.