Block State Information Output in Graphical Modeling

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Solution Overview

Problem

In graphical modeling environments, users face challenges in determining why a particular output results from a specific input without knowing the state of the block during simulation, as existing methods do not provide clear state information for blocks in block diagrams.

Innovation Solution

The solution involves providing state information for blocks in a block diagram by performing a functional transformation on the state information and outputting the result, which can be visually displayed or outputted to a data file, allowing users to understand the dynamic state of blocks and their impact on system outputs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If state information is provided for blocks in a block diagram, then measurement precision of block state is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblock state informationVSAvoidgraphical modeling environment
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts state information from the block diagram model and presents it separately through a dedicated interface. The state information is obtained by querying the model's internal state variables and displaying them through a separate window or panel, rather than integrating it directly into the block diagram visualization. This extraction approach allows precise state measurement without complicating the core modeling functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary interface layer between the block diagram model and the user. This interface mediates by providing a standardized mechanism for accessing and displaying state information, acting as a buffer that separates the complex internal model representation from the user interaction layer. The intermediary enables precise state measurement while maintaining the simplicity of the original modeling environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If functional transformation is performed on state information, then ease of operation for analysis is improved, but loss of time in computation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestate information analysisVSAvoidcomputation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial functional transformation by selectively transforming only the necessary state information rather than transforming all model data. The system identifies which state variables are relevant for analysis and applies functional transformations only to those specific variables, reducing unnecessary computation time while maintaining ease of operation for the intended analysis purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-computing and storing transformed state information during the model execution phase. Functional transformations are performed in advance as part of the normal simulation process, and the results are stored for later retrieval and display. This eliminates the need for time-consuming transformations during the analysis phase, improving ease of operation without significant time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7743361B2Providing block state information for a model based development process
Publication Date: 2010.06.22 MATHWORKS INC
  • US7743361B2 patent drawing
  • US7743361B2 patent drawing
  • US7743361B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and system for providing a block for use in a block diagram in a graphical modeling environment which is capable of outputting information regarding the dynamic state of the block.