Graphical Test Sequence Configuration with Function Placeholders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing configuration devices for creating test sequences require cumbersome management of function modifications across multiple instances of graphical library functional elements, leading to increased complexity and work intensity due to the need for local changes and separate updates of library functional elements.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of function placeholders within graphical library functional elements allows for individualization of instances, enabling central management of common functionality across all versions, with instance functionality stored separately, and enabling recursive use of function placeholders for continuous individualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If instances of library functional elements are created by copying the library element, then individual modification of instances is possible, but the library functional elements increase constantly and management becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the library functional element into a template portion (stored in the library) and an instance-specific portion (stored with the instance). When an instance is created, only the instance-specific portion is copied, not the entire functional element. This allows individual modification of instances while keeping the library compact, as the template remains unchanged and reusable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a selective copying mechanism where only the necessary instance-specific data is copied when creating an instance from a library functional element, rather than copying the entire element. This reduces library growth while enabling instance individualization through efficient use of the copying principle.
2Adaptability or versatility
If changes are made locally in different test sequences, then each instance can be modified independently, but the work intensity increases due to separate updates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the functional element into template and instance-specific parts, the patent enables independent modification of instances without affecting the library template or other instances. This segmentation allows local changes to be made efficiently without requiring updates across multiple copies, reducing overall work intensity.
Solution Approach 2:
The instance-specific portion is designed to be self-contained and self-modifiable, allowing users to change instance behavior locally without needing to access or modify the library template. This self-service capability reduces the complexity of maintaining consistency across multiple instances while preserving independence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive library functional elements are created to cover all versions, then all functionality is available, but the functional structure becomes poorly understandable with complicated case control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the complexity issue by segmenting the functional element into a simple, consistent template in the library and variable instance-specific portions. This segmentation maintains a clear, understandable library structure while providing comprehensive functionality through instance customization, avoiding the need for complicated case control within the library elements themselves.
Data Source
AI summary
A configuration device for the graphical creation of at least one test sequence for controlling a test device having at least one electronic computer. The test device is controllable according to the created test sequence. The configuration device has at least one display device, graphical library functional elements being displayed with the display device in a library field. The test sequence can be created by placing at least one instance of a library functional element in a configuration field. The instance of a library functional element is placed in the configuration field. The graphical library functional element can be provided with a function placeholder, whereby the function placeholder in the instance of the library functional element can be provided with an instance functionality, whereby the reference of the instance of the library functional element to the library functional element is retained.