Precise Object Manipulation via Directional Constraints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer-aided design (CAD) systems lack precise control over object manipulation, particularly in graphical user interfaces, where users struggle to accurately move and orient objects due to the lack of directional constraints and variable precision settings.
Innovation Solution
The system displays selectable candidate directions of constraint adjacent to a movable object, allowing users to select and move the object along specific paths based on these constraints, with motion inputs determining the amount of movement influenced by the distance between input positions and the object along a direction normal to the selected constraints, enabling precise control through varying degrees of precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If free movement of objects is allowed in CAD systems, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates due to lack of directional control
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the continuous movement space into discrete directional constraints by displaying candidate direction indicators (arrows) that divide possible movement paths into specific angular segments. This segmentation allows users to select from predefined directional options, thereby improving precision without completely restricting operational freedom.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the precision level based on user interaction. When directional constraints are applied, the movement precision is enhanced along constrained directions. The system adapts to user needs by allowing free movement when constraints are not selected, and providing precise directional control when constraints are activated, thus resolving the contradiction between operational freedom and movement precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If directional constraints are applied to object movement, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces directional constraint indicators (visual arrows) as intermediaries between the user and the object manipulation function. These indicators serve as a simple visual interface that mediates the complex underlying constraint mechanics, allowing users to select directions through intuitive visual cues rather than complex parameter settings, thus minimizing the perceived complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically generates and displays candidate direction indicators based on the selected object and context, without requiring users to manually configure constraint parameters. The system self-adapts to provide relevant directional options, reducing the operational complexity while maintaining precision control capabilities.
3Manufacturing precision
If variable precision levels are implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional selection steps
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-calculating and displaying candidate directional constraints before the user commits to a movement. This allows users to see all available precision options in advance and select the appropriate one without complex configuration, maintaining ease of operation while enabling variable precision control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies different precision levels locally to different directional constraints rather than requiring global precision settings. Each candidate direction can have its own precision characteristics, and users select only the directions they need for their specific task, avoiding the complexity of configuring overall precision parameters while still achieving variable precision where needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A system having a processor is provided that visually manipulates objects displayed on a touch screen or other display device responsive to inputs through the touch screen or other input device. The processor causes a display of a plurality of selectable candidate directions of constraint with respect to a movable portion of an object on a workspace. Responsive to a selection of one of the directions of constraint and motion inputs at input positions on the workspace that are spaced apart from the movable portion, the processor causes the movable portion to move along a path only in directions corresponding to the selected directions of constraint with an amount of motion produced from the motion inputs that is based at least in part on a distance between the input positions and the movable portion along a direction normal to the selected directions of constraint.