VMD is the visualization component of MDScope which is an interactive environment for molecular modelling and dynamics. As part of that project we are experimenting with new modes of human-computer interaction. Most programs use the mouse and menu user interface components, or even a dial box (which, by the way, VMD does not currently support - anyone want to give us one?) but these do not fully support the full range of control needed for modelling. We envision a system where a ligand can be picked up and inserted directly into an active site, or where one can point to a molecule and say ``which helix is that?''
This final product is still some time away from completion, but some work has been done to try out various possibilities. The following are short descriptions of the various methods being tried along with possible future directions. Since these are still very experimental, the documentation is sparse and only designed to give you an idea of the current state of development.