Automatic GUI-Graphical Program Binding via Self-Service Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical programming environments require users to manually configure GUI elements to interface with data sources or targets, which can be time-consuming and requires programming knowledge, limiting accessibility for users without extensive training.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows users to associate GUI elements from one graphical program development environment with graphical program elements from another, enabling automatic configuration for data exchange through user-friendly interfaces and tools like wizards and dialog boxes, without requiring source code specification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users manually configure GUI elements to interface with data sources or targets, then the configuration can be done with full control and precision, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires programming knowledge
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic configuration of GUI elements to interface with data sources and targets without requiring manual programming. The configuration is generated automatically based on the graphical program structure, enabling the system to serve itself rather than requiring user intervention for each configuration detail.
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration data is stored and prepared in advance within the graphical program structure. When GUI elements are added or modified, the system retrieves and applies pre-defined configuration rules and data bindings, eliminating the need for real-time manual configuration and reducing overall setup time.
2Measurement precision
If users manually configure GUI elements, then precise control over the configuration is achieved, but the ease of operation decreases due to requiring programming expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically generates and applies configuration settings for GUI elements based on the graphical program's data flow and structure. This self-configuration capability maintains precise control over the interface behavior while eliminating the need for users to write or understand programming code.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an automatic configuration mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the graphical program and the GUI elements. This mediator translates the graphical program's data requirements into appropriate GUI configurations automatically, shielding users from complex programming details while maintaining configuration precision.
3Productivity
If automatic configuration is implemented, then productivity and ease of use improve, but the device complexity increases due to automation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the existing graphical program structure and data flow information to automatically generate GUI configurations. By leveraging already-present program elements and their inherent data relationships, the system achieves automatic configuration without requiring additional complex external tools or mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic configuration mechanism is integrated into the graphical programming environment itself, serving multiple functions: it configures GUI elements, manages data bindings, and maintains synchronization between the graphical program and interface elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized tools and minimizes overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
System and methods for configuring communication between a graphical program element (GPE) and a graphical user interface element (GUIE), where the GPE and the GUIE are from different respective graphical program development environments. In response to receiving user input specifying the GPE and GUIE, and a data source/data target association between them, at least one of the GUIE and the GPE are programmatically modified to configure communication between the GPE and the GUIE. The graphical program is then executed, where either the GPE performs a function to generate data, provides the data to the GUIE, and the GUIE displays the received data; or, the GUIE element receives data from the user, provides the data to the GPE, and the GPE receives the data and performs a function based on the data. The user input may be performed via drag-and-drop user interface technique, line-drawing, command-line, menu, dialog box, or wizard, etc.