Abstract: A computer program product executes in a computer workstation according to methods of the invention to provide editing handles for solid shapes. The computer program provides a graphical user interface in the preferred form of an icon which is visually associated with a selected displayed solid shape and which, when activated via a user input device, toggles or cycles through plural editing modes of the displayed shape. In the plural editing modes, other graphical user interfaces which include editing “handles” can be utilized to perform various editing functions, the handles of each editing mode having functions dependent upon the respective editing mode. The editing handles themselves are subject to novel employments and manipulations in accordance with aspects of the present invention.

Abstract: A three dimensional geometric modeling system featuring an executable program (400) allows a user to select and then drag and drop sheet metal solid shapes into a scene or assembly depicted on a display screen. The user selects the sheet metal solid shapes from a sheet metal catalog (300), thereby creating an instance of a program object for the selected solid shape. A program object (1302) for a sheet metal solid shape carries an application-specific or customized procedure (1000) which governs the drag and drop behavior of the sheet metal solid shape. Implementation of the application-specific or customized drag and drop procedure occurs upon detection of a special interface through which the program object for the sheet metal solid shape acquires environmental information.