001 - Hammond and Sketchpad

"Introduction to Sketch Recognition"

Summary: This article begins with an introduction to modern Tablet PCs. A brief history of Tablets is given, then it delves into the argument of Active vs. Passive digitizers, complete with pros and cons of each. Different types of Tablets are then covered, along with different styles of input for those tablets. It goes on to explain different peripherals that use Sketch Recognition and different existing softwares that are currently in use. The article covers different uses of the technology, such as the different educational prospects, showing examples ranging from grade school (algebraic formulas) to real world on-the-job applications (Class Diagrams in Software Engineering).

I think the different applications of this technology is definitely the most appealing part of this article. Some of the examples are intriguing, such as the chemistry models, and some are literally WAITING to be explored (the animated schematics). I believe that there is a huge selection of different directions for this field to go in, and I think that all of those directions should be explored. I only wish there was more manpower to devote to this, because the potential of this technology is virtually limitless.

"Sketchpad"

Summary:
"Sketchpad" begins with a detailed example of creating a repeating pattern of hexagons, using various functions to lock the hexagon into place, equalize the lines, and copy the hexagon over and over. It goes on to explain how this example revolutionizes the field, and explains how these functions could be used to improve upon the hand schematics used at the time. It explained the function of the light pen and some of the concepts it uses, as well as how Sketchpad displays on the screen. It gives some equations on line drawing that are used even today in basic Computer Graphics, and goes into detail about the copy function. It further explains some of the more advanced functions and uses of Sketchpad, such as architectural design and circuit design.

I think this article, though aged, seems very advanced. Some of the functions in Sketchpad are even more powerful than some programs today. For example, as far as I know, AutoCad does not have a function for equalizing lines; users instead have to extend a guideline and delete the excess. While some functions seem archaic, such as the line drawing (even MSPaint has an "S-line" which allows for non-perfect curves), the copy function is still being refined and used to this day. Adobe Photoshop CS3 still uses grouping with copying, practically the same as the instances used in Sketchpad. It really is amazing that this program was made 45 years ago and some aspects are practically unchanged and unevolved in all that time.