Abstract: A system for changing the display characteristics of a drawing has one model style, a top graphics table memory for storing a top graphics table, a chart table memory for storing a chart table, a default box graphics table memory for storing a default box graphics table, and a level table memory for storing level tables, display routines for displaying the drawing on a display device, and model routines for changing the model style of a drawing. The model routines, when changing the model style, retrieve a model style from a model style library. The model routines re-configure the chart table, the default box graphics table, and the level tables according to the retrieved model style. The system includes a set of filters that control the application of a model style. As the model routines re-configure the chart table, the default box graphics table, and the level tables, the model routines analyze the filters.

Abstract: A central processing unit (CPU) is coupled to a display device, an input device, a data storage device and a memory with charting and diagramming tools, element records, connector records, and display routines. The memory is used by the CPU to present a user interface on the display and for generating chart elements in response to inputs from the user. The CPU displays a user interface that allows automatic generation and connection of new drawing elements. Methods are disclosed for creating drawing elements of a flowchart, creating drawing elements of a flowchart at a selected position, creating drawing elements of an organizational chart, and displaying a portion of the display in a visually distinct manner.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting the format of a table. The table comprises a column with a first, second, third, and fourth edges. The method comprises selecting a first edge of the column, the first edge residing in a first position on a page. Then, the first edge is moved to a second position on a page. Text of the column is reflowed to fit within the first, second, third, and fourth edges. The means for selecting comprises a mouse, in a preferred embodiment, and a means for selecting comprises a selection button on the mouse.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for sorting of information in a computerized spreadsheet or the like. The improved system provides for display of a graphical indication in the form of an icon indicative of the sort type, either by rows or by columns, which the data will be sorted in when a sort operation is performed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of corresponding the order of fields from a first data set to the order of fields in a second data set is provided by displaying the fields from a first record in the first data set on a display. Then, a first field name from the second data set is displayed to correspond with a first field from the first record in the first data set. The position on the display of the first field name from the second data set is then rearranged to correspond with a second field from the first record in the first data set.

Abstract: A computer system provides a method and an apparatus for generating and manipulating graphic objects on a computer display screen. The computer aided design and drawing system includes a graphic guide used for associating edges and points of one graphic image with one or more other images. The graphic guide operates in relation to the position of a cursor on the computer display screen. After a first image has been drawn on the screen, the graphic guide automatically is initiated to assist the user in positioning and sizing a second and subsequent images that are drawn on the display screen. The computer system also includes a wall tool used for efficiently generating wall objects displayed on the display screen. Wall objects are generated and manipulated by specifying the width of the wall, displaying joints between walls, capping the ends of walls, and efficiently measuring the interior, exterior or center dimension of a wall.