Graphical User Interface for Testing Machine Situational Awareness
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Solution Overview
Problem
The setup and operation of test machines are often cumbersome and time-consuming, limiting their efficiency in conducting tests due to non-intuitive steps and processes.
Innovation Solution
A testing machine system featuring a graphical user interface (GUI) and a processor that intuitively displays and allows users to control elements and parameters of the testing machine, including an actuator assembly and fixture, to configure and operate the machine efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional control interfaces are used for test machines, then device functionality is maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates due to non-intuitive setup steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical testing machine and test specimen in the graphical user interface. This virtual model mirrors the actual machine's components, geometry, and behavior, allowing users to visualize and control the testing process intuitively without needing to understand complex underlying mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical user interface acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex machine control systems. It translates user-friendly visual interactions into machine-specific control commands, shielding users from the complexity of direct machine control while maintaining full functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive control features are provided for test machine parameters, then device functionality is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complex configuration steps
Solution Approach 1:
The graphical user interface dynamically adapts its display and control options based on the current test configuration, machine state, and user selections. The virtual model updates in real-time to reflect changes, providing context-relevant controls rather than a static comprehensive menu, thereby maintaining versatility while improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The interface segments comprehensive machine control into modular, visually-separated functional areas corresponding to different machine components and test parameters. Each segment can be independently configured and visualized, allowing users to access comprehensive functionality through organized, manageable sections rather than overwhelming monolithic controls
3Ease of operation
If visual representations of machine parameters are displayed, then ease of operation is improved through intuitive interface, but device complexity increases due to additional rendering requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates visual copies (graphical representations) of physical machine components and test specimens in the GUI. These visual models are rendered based on actual machine geometry and state data, providing intuitive visual feedback without requiring separate physical prototypes or complex additional hardware
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical machine interfaces and visual monitoring systems with a software-based graphical representation system. The visual model in the GUI substitutes for physical dials, switches, and indicator lights, consolidating multiple mechanical interface elements into a unified software interface that reduces overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A testing machine for testing a test specimen includes an actuator assembly configured to be coupled to the test specimen; and a computing device configured to control the actuator assembly, the computing device including a graphical user interface that renders at least a visual representation or a simulated visual representation of at least a parameter of the component or the component changing in accordance with changes of the actual corresponding component on the testing machine.