Polymorphic dataflow block diagram system and method for programming a computer
US5301301A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 30, 1991 |
| Grant date | Apr 5, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 30, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S715/97
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A computer system is programmed by a user to perform dataflow computations by constructing a dataflow block diagram that utilizes function icons. At least a subset of the function icons are polymorphic with respect to data type and with respect to data aggregation. A polymorphic function icon is executed by performing a single mathematical operation when its inputs are scalars, while the same icon is executed on an element when its inputs are arrays or a scalar and an array. With cluster inputs, the polymorphic function icon is executed on a component by component basis. Output types of polymorphic function icons are determined by their input types prior to executing the diagram. The system automatically constructs a connection diagram consisting of an icon with connection points that are labelled with the names of associated front panel controls and indicators. A front panel control can be hidden to make the associated control value a constant. To facilitate use of icons, a two dimensional palette of user constructed icons is automatically constructed from a directory of user constructed icons. Further, the name of the virtual instrument associated with an icon is displayed whenev…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.