Object parameter values in a cell?

[Jim Martin <jim martin utah edu>]

Hello All:
I am thinking about a teaching tool to use in my biomechanics course. My 
idea is to have a force vector represented by an arrow (not very 
original I know). The force is applied to a person but the student can 
manipulate the size of the arrow (magnitude of the force) as well as the 
direction, and the point at which the force is applied to the person. He 
or she would do this by dragging the arrow around just as if trying to 
make something look right. If I could access the height and width values 
I could then use those in equations to show them the expected outcome 
for the force as they manipulate it. Might help dry topics like inverse 
dynamics really come alive.
So, is it possible to use drawing object parameter values in 
calculations in cells? If so, could one of you give me just a basic 
example?
Thanks,
Jim

--
James C. Martin PhD, FACSM
Associate Professor
The Neuromuscular Function Lab
Department of Exercise and Sport Science
College of Health
The University of Utah
250 S. 1850 E. Room 241
Salt Lake City, Utah, 84112-0920
Voice 801-587-7704
Fax 801-585-3992
http://www.health.utah.edu/ess/Faculty/Martin.html
"The best way to have a good idea is to have a lot of ideas." Linus Pauling