Abstract: A user interface system for operating software on a computer includes a pointing device operable by a user's primary dexterous hand, a keyboard operable by the user's secondary dexterous hand, a matrix of keyboard keys on the keyboard. The matrix may include a first set of functions that are selected from a plurality of functions, and can be programmed to the matrix and displayed on the computer screen as a context menu. The selection of the functions being programmed to the matrix is dynamically linked to a previously executed function.

Abstract: The present invention offers an improved GUI interface for CAD software to allow users easy access to menus. A user can execute commands and options with little disruption and with minimal hand movement. The keypad is represented on the computer screen and is called a GUFI (Graphical User Friendly Interface) keypad system. The keypad is a menu having a matrix of graphical buttons. A user selects a computer resource with a spatial input device and clicks the proper context button, the GUFI keypad displays only the functions or commands that pertain to the computer resource selected. The unique GUFI keypad system displays functions and commands in an arrayed, not in a pop-up or pull down menu, but in a pattern relating to the keys on the keyboard. Menu items are accessed through a one to one correspondence with the represented keys mapped to similar physically represented keys.