HabilisDraw DT: a bimanual tool-based direct manipulation drawing environment

ABSTRACT

In this paper, we present a two-handed tool-based drawing environment based on the principles originally incorporated into the HabilisDraw interactive drawing system. These principles include persistent tools that embody intuitive aspects of their physical counterparts and an approach to interface learnability that capitalizes on the user's inherent ability to use tools both separately and in conjunction with other tools. In addition to these principles, the DiamondTouch variation of HabilisDraw (HabilisDraw DT) extends the physical-virtual tool correlation with bimanual input via the MERL DiamondTouch input device and a close adherence to the direct manipulation interaction model. This paper presents the HabilisDraw interface, explores the benefits of a desktop metaphor that closely mimics the behavior of two-dimensional tools and objects in a drawing environment, and argues for the applicability of the system's fundamental principles for improving interface usability in the future.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.m Miscellaneous

General Terms:
Human Factors

Keywords:
direct manipulation, drawing applications, two-handed input