A framework for construction of icon systems

The authors propose a framework for the construction of icon systems. An icon system is composed of icons and rules. Icons represent real objects such as sales books, folders, calculators, etc. Functions associated with an object are associated with an object are specified in the icon representing the object. Icons therefore have both data and function properties. Icons may in fact have several functions. The behavior of an icon is not fixed but is determined at the time of programming by being combined with another icon. Rules are provided to make flexible interpretation of icons feasible depending on the application, the status of the system, and so on. The behavior of the system can be changed by replacing icons and/or rules with new ones. Implementational issues are also described. A system prototype is now in an actual operation on a workstation in laboratory environment.<>