Heads-up-display software development tool for graphics analysis

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current tools for analyzing computer graphics software lack intuitive feedback on performance changes when filters are applied, and they do not allow for the selection of arbitrary ranges of objects within a graphic image to analyze processor usage effectively.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for software development that presents a graphic display with a heads-up display (HUD) showing processor resource utilization for selected objects, allowing dynamic filtering and metadata display, and includes a system for analyzing graphics software by manipulating command buffers and push buffers to execute program chunks with timestamps for performance analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current analysis tools are used to examine processor usage in graphics software, then some performance data can be obtained, but the tools lack intuitive feedback and cannot effectively analyze arbitrary ranges of objects

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessor usage analysis accuracyVSAvoidintuitive feedback on performance changes
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a heads-up display (HUD) that provides real-time visual feedback on processor usage for selected objects. The system displays bar graphs showing CPU and GPU time consumption, along with metadata such as vertex counts and pixel coverage. This immediate visual feedback allows developers to intuitively understand performance characteristics without complex tool configurations, directly resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If filters are applied to objects in the graphic display to optimize processing, then processor resource utilization improves, but current tools do not allow selection of arbitrary ranges of objects for filter application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessor resource utilization efficiencyVSAvoidability to select arbitrary object ranges
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables users to select arbitrary ranges of objects within the graphic display by dividing the scene into selectable object groups. Users can apply filters to specific object ranges independently, allowing targeted optimization of processor resource utilization for particular portions of the scene. This segmentation capability directly addresses the contradiction by providing both selective control (adaptability) and optimized processing (productivity).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Loss of information

If detailed metadata is displayed for each object to provide comprehensive analysis information, then analysis completeness improves, but the complexity of the display increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of processing informationVSAvoiddisplay complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent displays detailed metadata such as vertex counts, pixel coverage, and draw call timings in a localized manner within the heads-up display. Each object or selected range has its specific metadata presented near the corresponding visual element, allowing comprehensive information delivery without overwhelming the entire display. This local presentation strategy resolves the contradiction by providing complete information (reducing information loss) while maintaining display organization and reducing perceived complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS7950003B1Heads-up-display software development tool for analyzing and optimizing computer software
Publication Date: 2011.05.24 SONY INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT LLC
  • US7950003B1 patent drawing
  • US7950003B1 patent drawing
  • US7950003B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method and apparatus for software development and a method and system for analysis of graphics software are disclosed.