Graphical Instrument Panel Code Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional software-based graphical instrument panels are limited by their dependency on data flow diagrams for information processing, which is difficult for complex computations, and callback programming is challenging for real-time, multi-component operations.
Innovation Solution
A system that allows direct correspondence between panel components and sections of code in a textual language program, enabling continuous operation, with a graphical user interface that displays both the panel layout and the associated code, allowing users to select and drag components into a layout window to generate corresponding code.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If data flow diagrams are used for information processing in conventional instrument panels, then the panel structure is simplified, but complex computational operations become difficult to program
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the programming task into two distinct parts: a graphical user interface layer for component placement and layout, and a separate textual programming layer for computational logic. This segmentation allows users to design panel structure independently using graphical elements, while complex computations are handled through modular textual code blocks, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and programming complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that maps between graphical panel components and textual code sections. This intermediary mechanism automatically generates or links the textual programming code corresponding to graphical elements, enabling users to work with intuitive graphical interfaces while the system handles the complexity of computational implementation through the intermediary code generation layer.
2Ease of operation
If callback programming is used for multi-component panels, then event handling is achieved, but real-time operation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining event handlers and code sections before runtime execution. Instead of relying on dynamic callback registration and execution during events, the system pre-organizes computational logic in textual code sections that are ready to execute immediately when triggered, eliminating the overhead of dynamic callback resolution and enabling real-time operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous execution of textual programming code sections in response to events, maintaining a continuous execution model rather than interrupt-driven callback processing. This continuous action approach allows multiple components to operate simultaneously without the timing conflicts and delays associated with traditional callback mechanisms, achieving real-time performance.
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional programming methods are used, then code control is precise, but the interface with graphical panel components becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a dimensional layer by introducing a graphical user interface dimension that operates independently from the textual code dimension. Users interact with panel components through intuitive graphical elements (buttons, sliders, displays) while the system maintains precise code control through corresponding textual sections. This dimensional separation allows graphical ease of operation without sacrificing programming precision, as each dimension can be optimized independently.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism for constructing a software-based instrument panel or front panel in which the components correspond directly with sections of code in a textual language program is disclosed. The textual language program relates to how the panel updates and operates in a continuous fashion. Icons representing panel components are selected from a component library window displayed to a user. The act of dragging the icon representing the components into the Graphical Panel Layout Window automatically causes the corresponding code to be added to the textual language program and displayed to the user in a Program Dialog Window. The present invention displays both a Graphical Panel Layout Window showing the components in the instrument panel and a Program Dialog Window showing the lines of code for the textual language program controlling the operation of the components in the instrument panel. A library containing I/O dialog devices is also presented and displayed to a user. The selection by the user of an I/O device icon and the subsequent dragging of the icon into either the Graphical Panel Layout Window or the Program Dialog Window causes the associated lines of code to appear in the Program Dialog Window.


