Generic HMI Linking Model Attributes to Spatial Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient and cost-effective method to create links between model attributes and control mechanisms in a human-machine interface (HMI) for simulating dynamic systems, relying on expensive custom-made HMIs and limiting user interaction.
Innovation Solution
A computing device enables the creation of links between model attributes and control mechanisms of a generic HMI in a spatial environment, allowing user interaction to adjust model attributes, using a technical computing environment (TCE) that integrates with graphical modeling tools and interactive systems for monitoring and processing user inputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If custom-made HMIs are used to control model attributes, then the interface can be precisely tailored to specific modeling needs, but the cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single generic HMI device that can control multiple different model attributes through software configuration rather than hardware customization. The HMI uses a display showing a three-dimensional representation of the model and allows users to interact with any model attribute by selecting and manipulating virtual control elements, eliminating the need for custom hardware for each modeling scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a virtual three-dimensional representation of the model on the display, which serves as a copy or simulation of the actual model. Users interact with this visual copy through the HMI interface, and the system translates these interactions into appropriate control commands for the actual model attributes, avoiding the need for direct physical connection to each attribute.
2Ease of operation
If custom-made HMIs are used for each model, then the interface can be optimized for specific modeling tasks, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The HMI is designed as a universal device that can be configured through software to control different model attributes without requiring physical customization. The system displays a three-dimensional representation of the model and provides interactive control elements that can be adapted to any attribute type, eliminating the need to manufacture separate HMIs for each modeling application.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy of the model on the display and uses this representation to mediate between the user and the actual model attributes. Users interact with the visual copy through intuitive interfaces, and the system translates these interactions into appropriate control commands, reducing the need for expensive custom hardware while maintaining ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional HMI methods are used, then the interface design can be simplified, but user interaction and engagement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by transitioning from traditional two-dimensional graphical interfaces to a three-dimensional interactive representation of the model. Users can navigate and manipulate the model in three-dimensional space, selecting and controlling attributes through spatial interactions rather than through flat menus and buttons, thereby enhancing engagement while managing interface complexity through intuitive spatial navigation.
4Ease of manufacture
If generic HMIs are used instead of custom-made interfaces, then costs are reduced, but the ability to precisely control specific model attributes may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates an accurate visual copy of the model on the display, preserving all geometric and attribute information. Users interact with this precise copy through the HMI, and the system maintains exact correspondence between the visual representation and the actual model attributes, ensuring that control precision is not compromised despite using a generic rather than custom interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A computing device may receive a request to create a link between a control mechanism of a human machine interface and an attribute of a model. The model, when executed, may simulate behavior of a system. The human machine interface may correspond to a physical object. The request may include information identifying the attribute and information identifying the control mechanism. The computing device may create a link between the control mechanism and the attribute based on receiving the request. The computing device may further observe the control mechanism in a spatial environment and detect that the control mechanism has changed based on observing the control mechanism. The computing device may modify a value, associated with the attribute, based on detecting that the control mechanism has changed and based on the link.