Abstract: The present invention is directed to explaining functions with a rich graphical expression even when the number of kinds of functions required for a software increases. More particularly, a plurality of function areas 201-223 are defined in a composite icon area of the present invention. An appearance image is associated to each function area and, when a mouse pointer comes across a function area, appearance images associated to that function area are displayed as appearance images of a composite icon. A function is also associated to each function area and, when a mouse is clicked on a function area, a function which is associated to that function area is executed. The set of the function area may be changed by changing the size of a composite icon, an operation to switch the group of functions, or selection of an object to be operated upon.

Abstract: A method and a system precisely selects a three-dimensional object hidden inside complex objects. A retrieval object is disposed in the proximity of a pointer to retrieve a three-dimensional object, all three-dimensional objects included within or touching the retrieval object are retrieved, a sub-window is displayed, an area in the sub-window is divided into a plurality of regions corresponding to the number of retrieved three-dimensional objects and, in response to the pointer being positioned within one of said plurality of regions within said sub-window, a corresponding three-dimensional object within a main window is displayed distinctively over other three-dimensional objects within said main window. After a desired object is selected, the selection is finalized by a click operation of the pointer, etc.