On 8/31/06, Redefined Horizons <redefined.horizons@...400...> wrote:
[1] Design and implement what I call "coordinate selectors". These are tools that allow very precise selection of points on the canvas. Typically these points will be selected from existing geometries.I would like to implement the following coordinate selectors for Inkscape:
About six months ago, I had to learn a CAD system (TurboCAD) for the first time. Since my only experience with vector editing was in Inkscape, I had a difficult time with the transition. The trouble is that the two programs have different work-styles. In Inkscape, the basic approach is to draw a shape in the rough position you are interested in, then refine it until it looks correct. CAD systems, on the other hand, require users to draw shapes perfectly the first time, and provide little ability to edit them after the fact.
Since Inkscape's approach is different than that of a CAD system, it might make sense to work within the current system of doing things. Instead of adding ways to draw individual shapes precisely, for example, consider enhancing the node editor with those features instead. All shapes then benefit, and you preserve the Inkscape approach of drawing first and refining later. While I use CAD software every day and understand that its approach is faster for engineering, Inkscape is an art program, not a CAD program. Any added CAD features should follow the artistic philosophy of gradual refinement rather than the engineering approach of instant perfection.
Of course, this is just my own thinking based on my experience with both types of software. Feel free to ignore me if you like.
-William Swanson