Graphical Timing Wires for Node Execution Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional text-based programming environments require users to possess advanced programming skills, creating a barrier for those who are not proficient, and lack intuitive methods for representing timing relationships between nodes in graphical programs, which is essential for precise timing in computer operations.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for specifying and visually indicating timing relationships between nodes in a graphical program, allowing users to define timing constraints such as execution intervals, maximum/minimum time elapses, and associating these with timing sources, displayed through timing wires or other visual indicators, enabling precise control over node execution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional text-based programming environments are used, then programming precision and control are maintained, but user accessibility and ease of operation deteriorate due to requiring advanced programming skills
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces text-based programming syntax with a graphical user interface system where users interact with visual elements (icons, buttons, drag-and-drop interfaces) instead of typing code. This substitution of mechanical text input with graphical interaction mechanisms makes programming accessible to non-technical users while maintaining precise control over timing parameters through visual configuration.
2Productivity
If graphical programming environments are used, then ease of operation and user productivity improve, but timing precision and control deteriorate due to lack of intuitive timing representation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color-coded visual indicators (such as colored bars, highlights, or timing annotations) within the graphical interface to represent different timing parameters, execution sequences, and temporal relationships between operations. This visual encoding allows users to intuitively understand and precisely control timing without needing to interpret complex numerical parameters or text-based timing syntax.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a visual dimension to timing representation by displaying timing information as spatial elements in the graphical interface (such as horizontal bars representing time duration, vertical positioning indicating sequence, or annotated labels). This transforms abstract timing parameters into visually perceivable spatial relationships, enabling users to grasp temporal relationships at a glance and make precise timing adjustments through graphical manipulation.
3Measurement precision
If visual timing indicators are added to graphical programs, then timing precision and understanding improve, but interface complexity and device complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates timing visualization functionality into existing graphical programming elements rather than adding separate dedicated timing display components. The same graphical elements (such as operation icons, connection lines, or flow indicators) serve both their original functional purposes and simultaneously display timing information through visual attributes like color, size, or position. This multi-functionality provides precise timing measurement capability without proportionally increasing interface complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for specifying timing relationships among nodes in a graphical program. User input specifying desired timing of a first node with respect to timing of a second node may be received. In various embodiments, any kind of timing relationship or timing constraint between the first node and the second node may be specified. Timing information may be displayed on the display to visually indicate the timing of the first node with respect to timing of the second node. In one embodiment, displaying the timing information may comprise displaying a timing wire between the first node and the second node. The graphical program may be executed in such a way that the visually indicated timing of the first node with respect to timing of the second node is satisfied.