On the theory of moveable objects

TL;DR

This paper presents an algorithm enabling arbitrary-shaped objects in user-driven applications to be moved and resized freely, supporting dynamic, user-controlled screen layouts.

Contribution

It introduces a novel algorithm and design rules for making any shape object moveable and resizable in user interfaces, including group movements.

Findings

Algorithm for moveable, resizable arbitrary-shaped objects

Analysis of individual and synchronous object movements

Design rules for user-driven interface flexibility

Abstract

User-driven applications belong to the new type of programs, in which users get the full control of WHAT, WHEN, and HOW must appear on the screen. Such programs can exist only if the screen view is organized not according with the predetermined scenario, written by the developers, but if any screen object can be moved, resized, and reconfigured by any user at any moment. This article describes the algorithm, by which an object of an arbitrary shape can be turned into moveable and resizable. It also explains some rules of such design and the technique, which can be useful in many cases. Both the individual movements of objects and their synchronous movements are analysed. After discussing the individually moveable controls, different types of groups are analysed and the arbitrary grouping of controls is considered.