Method for integrating a discrete subprogram into a main program
US5546581A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 8, 1994 |
| Grant date | Aug 13, 1996 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 8, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F9/44521
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method is disclosed for integrating a plurality of discrete subprograms with a main program. The method enables the main program to integrate any discrete subprogram stored in its directory with the main program. The method includes the step of identifying each discrete subprogram stored in the directory of the main program and creating a cross reference array to enable the main program to access the plurality of subprograms. In addition to creating the cross reference array, an event reference list of the main program is updated, enabling commands of the subprogram to be given key and menu assignments, thereby further integrating the subprogram with the main program. Similarly, the subprogram can be removed from the main program simply by deleting the subprogram from the directory of the main program. Further features of the subject invention include a method for enabling the subprogram to request the main program to perform main program functions, and a method for limiting the number of subprograms loaded in the address space of the computer.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.