Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided for user input to control automated movement of catheters and other elongate bodies. Fluid drive systems can be used to provide robotically coordinated motion. Precise control over actual robotic catheter-supported tools are enhanced by moving a virtual version of the tool from a starting location of an actual tool to a desired ending position and orientation. A processor of the system can then generate synchronized actuator drive signals to move the tool without following the (often meandering) path input by the system user. The progress of the tool along a multi-degree-of-freedom trajectory can be controlled with a simple 1D input. Standard planar or proprietary input devices can be used for orientation and translation movements. Hybrid image display with 2D and 3D components is provided, along with spacial constrained movement to workspace boundaries.