Multi-Physics Block Diagram Zoom Preview Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current block diagram design solutions for multi-physics systems lack improved ergonomics, making it difficult for users to efficiently navigate and visualize complex systems.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes a zoom command to simultaneously display a block diagram representation of a multi-physics system and a preview of its sub-systems, allowing users to intuitively explore and understand the hierarchical structure through a computer-implemented system with graphical user interface interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users navigate complex multi-level block diagrams using traditional double-clicking methods, then they can explore lower levels, but they must frequently switch back to higher levels which reduces operational efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested view mechanism where a first block diagram representing the global system is displayed, and upon user interaction (hovering or clicking), a second block diagram representing a sub-system is displayed within or alongside the first diagram. This allows users to view multiple hierarchical levels simultaneously without频繁 switching, directly resolving the contradiction by enabling both global overview and detailed exploration in a unified interface.
2Loss of information
If the system displays detailed sub-system information, then users gain better understanding of components, but the overall system overview becomes less visible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spatial dimensioning strategy where the first block diagram (global system) and second block diagram (sub-system details) are displayed in different spatial arrangements - one overlaid on the other, or positioned in master-detail panes. This dimensional separation allows users to simultaneously access both system-level overview and component-level details without one obscuring the other, effectively resolving the visibility contradiction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the interface provides comprehensive multi-level block diagram functionality, then it can handle complex systems, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an on-demand information display mechanism where detailed sub-system block diagrams are only displayed when users trigger them through hovering or clicking actions. The system automatically manages the display state - showing global views by default and revealing detailed views only when needed. This self-service approach allows the interface to handle complex multi-level systems while maintaining simplicity by default, resolving the contradiction between versatility and interface complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
It is proposed a method, performed by a computer system, for designing a multi-physics system. The method comprises the steps of displaying (S 10) a block diagram representation of the multi-physics system, including blocks that each correspond to a respective sub-system of the multi-physics system, and, between the blocks, links that correspond to multi-physics connections between the respective sub-systems; and upon a zoom command, sent by a user, displaying (S30) a preview of a block diagram representation of at least one respective sub-system, the displaying of the preview being controlled by the detection, by the computer system, of the zoom command. Such a method improves the design of a 3D modeled object.