Hi Alex, > I've become interested in visual programming languages, but a bit > disappointed that visual notation tends to be based on topological > rather than geometrical relationships.
I think you need to define a little more carefully what you mean by 'geometrical relationships'. Within the theory of visual languages community, there are many formalisations that include information other than node-link connectivity. Check out Marriott and Meyer's book for an overview of other approaches. > ... In fact the only example of a > computer language using geometrical notation I've found is the > ReacTable and the related TurTan, which use relative orientation and > proximity of symbols. Are there others? Those two systems are from the same research group, and based on the same ideas. Symbol orientation is a very natural interaction technique with a tangible interface such as the one this group have created, but not so convenient when using a mouse. > Also, perhaps a more interesting question is, why aren't there more? > I can see why you wouldn't want (practically) continuous parameters of > distance involved in business logic, but how about programming > languages for use in the arts? Well, I guess your examples are both in the arts. What about other domains? A natural place to look might be interactive geometry tutors, computer aided design, or any other area where geometry is significant. Alan -- Alan Blackwell Reader in Interdisciplinary Design, University of Cambridge Further details from www.cl.cam.ac.uk/~afb21/ -- The Open University is incorporated by Royal Charter (RC 000391), an exempt charity in England & Wales and a charity registered in Scotland (SC 038302).
