Drawing on the table: computer aided design for dummies

This paper presents a prototype for an interface device which leverages the strengths of commercially available computer-aided-design (CAD) packages and the skills of pen-based designers in a single system. Using relatively conventional technology, a cathode ray tube (CRT) display and a touchscreen, the device connects the traditional skills of a designer with the power and advantages of a CAD system. In order to closely emulate a standard drawing surface, the system interprets pen-based sketching as vector linework. In addition, a user interface system was developed that adapts the current graphical user interface (GUI) paradigm to the particular demands of a large drafting surface, using a two handed interface. While the author only created a smaller proof-of-concept device, the results were positive, and point towards the need for further development.