Executable Block Diagram GUI In-Place Attribute Editing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional configurations for viewing and editing attributes in executable block diagram models require users to switch between model windows and dialog boxes, which is inefficient and inconvenient.
Innovation Solution
A computer-readable medium with instructions to display attributes of block diagram modeling components within the same window, using graphical affordances, widgets, and multi-level detail viewers to allow for attribute viewing, editing, and searching without the need for window switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If dialog boxes are used to view and edit parameters, then parameter viewing and editing functionality is provided, but users must switch focus between model window and dialog box windows which reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the dialog box interface with the model window by displaying parameter widgets directly within the model window. This integration eliminates the need for separate dialog box windows, allowing users to view and edit parameters in-place without switching focus between windows, thereby improving operational efficiency while maintaining interface functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional multi-window spatial arrangement to an embedded widget dimension within the model window. By placing parameter widgets directly on the model window canvas near their associated blocks, the interface utilizes the spatial dimension of the existing window rather than requiring additional window space, thus improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing device complexity
2Productivity
If multiple dialog box windows are opened for different parameters, then comprehensive parameter editing is enabled, but window management becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple parameter editing functions into a single model window by embedding widgets directly within the window. This eliminates the need to open and manage multiple dialog box windows, allowing users to access and edit different parameters by interacting with widgets in-place, thereby improving productivity while eliminating time spent on window switching
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions parameter widgets in advance within the model window near their associated blocks. This preliminary placement allows users to access parameters immediately without needing to open separate windows or navigate through menu hierarchies, thus improving parameter editing efficiency while reducing the time lost to window management operations
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a method for displaying elements of an attribute in an executable block diagram model is provided. The method may include displaying an executable block diagram model in a first window and receiving a first input from an input device, wherein the first input associates with a first parameter of a block diagram modeling component in the executable block diagram model, the first parameter is represented in the executable block diagram model by a first graphical affordances. The method may include triggering the display of a value of a first parameter in a first user interface widget in the first window.