Graphical user interface tool for orienting computer-aided design model

摘要

A change in orientation or reorientation operation is applied to 3D models while maintaining constant zoom level of model display. The orientation is provided by a computer-based tool or GUI widget formed of a transparent container element and a miniaturized depiction of the 3D model. The transparent container element encapsulates the miniaturized depiction and enables see through view of the miniaturized depiction illustrating real time orientation of the 3D model. The container element is user-interactive to effect change in orientation of the 3D model concurrently displayed in a work area of a screen view. The zoom level of the displayed 3D model in the work area remains constant avoiding or omitting zoom to extents throughout user interaction with the GUI widget.