JPH0652278A - Data processing system and value selecting method - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide the user selection of numerical data as the value of an independent variable evaluated by a data processing system. CONSTITUTION: A data processing system is introduced to an equality included in at least a first independent variable and provided with a subordinate variable. Scroll bars 318a to 318f are generated and displayed on a user interface for providing the value of the independent variable and, if desired, the user selection of the value of a selected parameter for an operator. The scroll bars are stepwise numerical sequences and are varied depending of precision and a range. The data processing system expresses the equation 316 of a displayed range by means of a graph 314 to show the value of the subordinate variable of the present solution of the equation.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to a method for presenting numerical data for selection as the value of an independent variable of an equation being evaluated in a data processing system, and in particular to numerical data on a scroll bar for selection. For a continuous display of and a graphical display of the current values of the dependent variables and possible solution sets. Furthermore, the method is particularly concerned with changing the precision of successive numerical values in each scroll bar.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Electronic digital computers were originally used mainly as numerical computers, that is, machines for solving arithmetic problems. It has been recognized that the development of about half a century has further expanded the range of convenience of digital computers. Increasing awareness of computer convenience, lowering costs, and improving what is referred to as an "interface" between the computer and the user increases the accessibility (usability) of the layperson's computer. Was done. An interface is a mechanism by which humans and machines communicate. The interface has been modified to offload communication from humans to machines. Such improvements include the so-called Graphic User Interface (GU
I), this interface is used to drive the graphical metaphor. The appearance of a graphical metaphor resembles a physical workstation with ordinary business tools, such as a desk with a clock, books and filing cabinet.

However, providing graphical metaphors for mathematical applications lags behind those for other applications. With the selection of numerical data for operation by a computer, the act of the user inputting a discrete value as an input using the numerical keypad remains largely. Certain applications of scroll bar metaphors have been made, however, their use well known to the inventor is limited to selecting data in a single dimension, limited to one level of decomposition, and linear. Met.

[0004]

Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a user selection of numerical data as the value of an evaluated independent variable in a data processing system.

Another object of the present invention is to display numerical data for selection as a set of gradually changing values on a scroll bar to enhance viewing of the values of dependent variables.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a method for changing the accuracy of the presentation of consecutive numerical values in a scroll bar.

[0007]

The foregoing objects are accomplished as described herein. At least a first independent and dependent variable equation has been introduced into the data processing system. Scroll bars are generated and displayed in the operator's user interface to provide user selections for the value of one or more independent variables and, if desired, the value of the selected parameter. Scrollbars are progressively varying sequences of numbers that vary in precision and range. The data processing system generates a graph of the solution set in the displayed range of equations and displays the values of the dependent variables of the current solution of the equations.

A data processing system for graphically displaying the values of dependent variables of an equation in at least a first independent variable, means for inputting at least an equation of a first independent variable in response to user selection, and user selection Scrolling means for displaying a stepwise visual indicia of the range of values of each independent variable according to, a means for changing the accuracy of the stepwise visual indicia according to a user selection, and a user selection Means for selecting the value of each independent variable from the scrolling means, means for solving the equation entered to obtain the value of the dependent variable, and means for graphically displaying the solution for obtaining the value of the dependent variable And a data processing system including.

A method of selecting a value for at least a first independent variable, the method being performed by a data processing system including a visual display device, the method comprising inputting an equation for at least a first independent variable in response to user selection. Displaying a stepwise visual indicia scrolling metaphor for the range of values for each independent variable, changing the range of values displayed for each scrolling metaphor in response to user selection, and stepping in response to user selection The accuracy of the visual indicators of interest, selecting a value from the displayed range of each scrolling metaphor for actuation of the equation in response to user selection, and solving the equation to obtain the value of the dependent variable. A value selection method comprising: a step and a step of graphically displaying a value of a dependent variable.

A data processing program product for controlling selection of at least a value of a first independent variable in an equation and graphically displaying a result of evaluation of the equation, wherein at least the equation of the first independent variable is selected in accordance with user selection. Command means for inputting to the data processing system for evaluation; command means for displaying on a visual display device of a scrolling metaphor of stepwise visual indicia of the range of values of each independent variable;
Command means for changing the range of values of each scroll metaphor according to the user's selection, command means for changing the accuracy of the gradual visual marking according to the user's selection, and equations for the equations according to the user's selection. Command means for selecting a value from each displayed range of the scroll metaphor for use in the solution, command means for solving an equation to obtain the value of the dependent variable, and command for graphically displaying the value of the dependent variable. A data processing program product comprising:

[0011]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT FIG. 1 shows an external view of a personal computer system 10 used to carry out the present invention. Computer system 10 is preferably provided by using a personal computer 12 or other similar system such as the IBM Personal System 2®. The personal computer system 10 generally comprises a keyboard 14, a video display device 16 and a mouse 18.
Keyboard 14, video display device 16 and mouse 1
8 is used by the operator to provide input to the personal computer system 10. The message from the computer 12 is displayed on the video display screen 20 of the video device 16. The keyboard 14, video display device 16 and mouse 18 provide the portion of the physically operable interface between the personal computer system 10 and the user.

FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a software configuration 22 used by current personal computers. The basic input / output system (BIOS) 24, which is in fact microcode, is concerned with controlling the basic hardware operations of a computer, and in particular with the transfer of programs from peripheral storage devices such as disk drive drives and addressable computer memories. When the user turns on the computer 12, the BIOS 24 controls the transfer of the operating system 26 from the peripheral memory device to the addressable computer memory. A preferred operating system for implementing the present invention is IBMS / 2 available from IBM Corporation.
Operating system. The operating system of any personal computer,
It controls the execution of the application programs 32A to 32N. The presentation layer 28 is on top of the operating system 26 and includes the operating system 26 and application programs 32A-3A.
Between 2N. The presentation layer 28 is I
IBM OS / 2 Presentation Manager available from BM
Preferably provided by the ™ system. Presentation layer 28 provides a common syntax for application programs. The presentation layer 28 provides well-known interface elements such as windows and icons in the desktop metaphor, and graphic display ability and chart display ability. The presentation layer 28 is an application program 32A.
To 32N. The application programs 32A to 32N are function generation devices of the personal computer system 10 and provide document processing, spreadsheets, games, database management, and the like.

FIG. 3 is an external view of the display image 34 on the video display screen 20. The display image 34 shows a window 36 opened in the program using the data display and selection graphics generated in accordance with the present invention. Window 36 opens to the chart program indicated by chart name bar 38. The charting (schematicizing) program 38 is the application program 3
2A-32N, provided by any one of the graphic application programs. The charting program illustrates one possible environment for using the data scrolling mechanism of the present invention and is not intended to limit the environment available to the system. Within window 36 is a name bar 38, a menu bar 40, a display field 42 representing a three-axis graph 44, and a frame 45 containing a data scrolling field.
Graph 44 visually illustrates that as the values of the two independent variables change, the value of the dependent variable becomes a function of the independent variable.

The frame 45 is generated by the graphical user interface of the presentation layer 28 running in the data scrolling application program. The mathematical function appearing in the text field 46 indicates the functional relationship that controls the position of the dependent variable within the graph 44. Three scroll bars 50, 52 and 54 appear in the scroll bar field 48. Scrollbar 50 relates to the dependent variables and scrollbars 52 and 54 relate to the independent variables X and Y. X or Y
Changing the value of changes the value of Z appearing in the visual selection graphic 61. Z automatically changes to satisfy the equation of field 46.

The graphics are scroll bars 50, 5
Displayed for user selection to control 2 and 54. Scroll bars 52 and 54 include increment / decrement controls 56 and 58, respectively. Increment / decrement control 56 and 58
Is selected by appropriate movement of the mouse pointer 59 to change the values appearing in the value selection graphics 63 and 65, respectively. Increment / decrement controls 56 and 58 operate to select a value adjacent to the currently selected value appearing in the visual value selection graphic. Disassembly control graphics 62 and 64 include scroll bars 50, 52 and 5
Used to reduce or increase the resolution displayed together with 4. By selecting the disassembly control graphic 64,
It is moved one space to the left of the decimal point in each of the scroll bars. The decomposition increases by an order of magnitude in each scroll bar. The selection of the decomposition control graphic 62 has the opposite effect of reducing decomposition by one order of magnitude within each scroll bar. By repeating the selection of one or the other of the decomposition control graphics,
Repeated changes occur during decomposition. Disassembly control graphics are also included within scroll bars 50, 52 and 54 as illustrated by disassembly control graphics 66 and 68. The selection of disassembly control graphics 66 and 68 only affects scroll bar 50.

FIG. 4 shows an enlarged view of the two scroll bars 70 and 72 in the combined control frame 74 in an external view. The frame 74 is created using direct manipulation techniques provided by the user by the presentation layer 28. Control graphics are automatically supplied by the creation of combined control frames. Mouse pointer 75 is used to select a particular control graphic. Scroll bars 70 and 72 display the values of variables A and B, respectively, and, like FIG. 3, those values are independent variables in a mathematical relationship, or are process control input variables or of interest to the computer user. It represents some other numerical information. The following discussion regarding scroll bar 70 also applies to scroll bar 72. Within the scroll bar 70 are a number of sequences of ancillary display fields ranging from -0.6 to 0.6. Sequence is 0.1
Is incremented by one.

The four graphics are displayed in field 7
Control a value of 1. At the center of the display field 71 is a value selection graphic 80, which shows the current value available for selection as the value of the variable A. The scroll bar increment control 76 and the scroll bar decrement control 78 only allow the display field 7 to increment by the increment that appears between adjacent values in the sequence.
The range of values within 1 can be varied. In other words, a single selection of the increment control 76 will move the value 0.1 into the value selection graphic, the value 0.7 to the top of the field 71 and the value minus 0.6 to the display field 71.
Move out of the field at the bottom of the view. The remaining values in the field shift as well. Decrement control 7
The choice of 8 gives the same result as above in the opposite direction.

Two additional control mechanisms are provided to control the individual scrollbars. For the scroll bar 70, these are the maximum selection graphic 86 and the minimum selection graphic 88. Select control graphic 86 with a single click of the mouse select button
This results in the selection of the next higher range value from the current range values appearing in display field 71. Two clicks of the mouse select button results in moving the scroll bar to the maximum allowed value. The values are scrolled in display field 71 by successive selections using the mouse. Actuation of the minimum selection graphic 88 causes processing corresponding to the reverse direction of the current sequence of values.

Within the value selection graphic 80 are two decomposition control graphics 82 and 84. The decomposition control graphic 82 is used to reduce accuracy. The choice changes the increment between the name of the sequence of values and the value appearing in field 71 by as much as one order of magnitude.
In other words, after selection, the range of values in display field 71 is from -6 to 6, incremented by 1 between adjacent values. The decomposition control graphic 84 produces the same result in the opposite direction. The values appearing in the visual selection graphic 80 remain as close as possible to the center of the values within the previously displayed range of values. For example, the value selection graphic 8
If the value that appears at 0 is 0.1, that value remains the center value even after increasing the decomposition, and the range of values in the display field ranges from 0.04 to 0.16. If accuracy decreases,
0.0 is replaced with 0.1 in the visual selection graphic 80.

The appearance of the scroll bars 70 and 72 in the combined control graphic 74 causes the "a" to appear.
It is shown that parallel changes in the values of and "b" are possible.
Accordingly, a combined increment control 90 and decrement control 92 are provided. Combined decomposition reduction graphic 94 and decomposition increase graphic 96 are also provided. A maximum selection graphic 301 or a minimum selection graphic 302 is provided.

Referring to FIGS. 5-10, there are shown logical flow charts illustrating data selection techniques and data value decomposition techniques in the method of the present invention. The process starts at block 100 of FIG. Next, operation block 10
At 2, the memory is initialized. This involves transferring from the peripheral memory to the data value decomposition and selection graphics provided by the present invention as well as to the addressable memory of the application program for numerical processing. Next, at block 104, visual frames are retrieved for each data scroller used.
Next, at block 106, the data is retrieved for display on the data scroller. Subsequently, the data scroller image is updated in action block 108 and the data image is moved to a buffer for the visual display device. At block 110, the display is updated to show the data scroller on the visual display screen.

An environment for using the data scroller is provided by the present invention in which a computer operation is initiated to monitor user preferences regarding use of the data scroller. Block 112 represents a wait state for input of such user input. Next, block 11
At 4, the execution of the program proceeds by a series of decision blocks to determine the nature of the input and the appropriate response according to the input of the user input. The user selection of the increment or decrement selection graphic is detected at decision block 114. The YES branch from block 114 goes to block 116, namely CHAN in the value subroutine.
Direct program execution to GE (change). The NO branch of decision block 114 leads to decision block 118. The decision block 118 relates to the user selection of the graphic for immediately changing the value to the minimum or maximum of the range.
The selection of the minimum or maximum graphic exits decision block 118 and proceeds along the YES branch through block 120 to the EXTREMES subroutine. Along the NO branch from decision block 118, decision block 122 is reached regarding the user request to increase the accuracy of the value displayed on the data scroller.
The YES branch from decision block 122 is block 12
Proceed to step 4 to INCREASE precision subroutine. The NO branch from the increment decision block 122
The reduction precision determination block 126 is reached. Decision block 12
6 determines when the user has requested DECREASE for the precision of the range of values displayed on the data scroller, and when true, exits decision block 126 to YE
DECREA via block 128, along the S branch
Proceed to SE precision routine. The NO branch from decision block 126 leads to decision block 130, which is invoked by the user use of direct manipulation techniques to couple or uncouple the control of two or more scrollers from each other. From decision block 130, along the YES branch, JOINED
The (combined) scrolling subroutine 132 is reached. The NO branch from decision block 130 leads to operation block 134 for the non-data scrolling operation called by the user. From block 134,
Operation returns to monitor again for new user input. R
Block 136 labeled ETURN also feeds back to block 112. Return block 1
36 is five subroutines, namely, CHANGE subroutine, EXTREMS subroutine, INCREA
It is a return path from each of the SE subroutine, the DECREASE subroutine, and the JOIN subroutine.

FIG. 6 relates to the CHANGE subroutine entered via block 116. Next, at block 138, the direction of data scrolling is determined. The address of the new data field is calculated at block 140 to retrieve the display. Next, at block 142, new data is retrieved. next,
At block 144, the data remaining on the data scroller is moved to provide space for new data. Next, at block 146, the data scroller image is updated with the new data. Next, at block 148, the data containing the updated scroller image is moved to the display device buffer. Next, at block 150, the image in the display buffer is transferred to the video display screen. Block 150 returns program execution to monitor for new user input via block 136.

The CHANGE value routine is called by moving the mouse pointer on the video display screen to the maximum or minimum graphic and holding down the mouse select button. As a result of such action, the program is repeatedly instructed from block 116 via the CHANGE routine to present the user with the appearance of a constantly moving scroll bar.

The EXTREMES subroutine arrives via block 120. Selection with a mouse with a properly positioned mouse pointer executes this subroutine. From block 120, block 152 is executed to determine the direction of scrolling.
Next, at block 154, the address of the end data is determined. Next, at block 156, the address of the starting data for the range to be displayed on the scroller is determined. Next, at block 158, the new data is retrieved. Next, at block 160, the data scroller image is updated with the new data. Next, at block 162, the data scroller image is placed in the display buffer and the display is updated at block 164. Return to the main program is performed via block 136.

The INCREASE precision routine is entered via the increment block 124. The INCREASE precision routine involves increments between changes in a range of values and discrete values within the range due to order magnitude. For example, if the increment between discrete values in the sequence is 1, the increment will be 0.1 after execution of the subroutine.
The system begins execution at block 124. At block 166, the current accuracy is determined. next,
At block 168, the next level of accuracy, the requested level of accuracy, is determined. Next, block 1
At 70, the current selection value in the data scroller, that is, the center value of the displayed range, is saved. Next, at block 172, the current data is expanded to the new precision. Next, at block 174, the data scroller image is updated with the current or new current value and the remaining data that can be displayed. Next, at block 176, the data scroller image is transferred to the display buffer of the video display device and block 17
The display is updated at 8. The process is block 13
Return to main routine via 6.

The DECREASE subroutine is concerned with reducing the accuracy of the display of the data scroller values.
In other words, if the value is "1" between the values in the display field
If it is an incremented integer, a gradual decrease in precision will be an increment between the values of 10 and an increase in the range of values represented by a factor of 10. Block 128
Thus, the current precision is determined at block 180. Next, at block 182, the level of accuracy requested by the user is determined. Next, block 18
At 4, the current value of the data scroller is saved. At decision block 186, the current display value is 10
It is determined whether it is a decimal number. If the value is a decimal number, the YES branch from decision block 186 continues to action block 188. At block 188, the current data is adjusted to the new accuracy. Next, block 190
At, the data scrolling image is updated with the new current value and the remaining displayable data. The data scroller image is then transferred to the display buffer at block 192 and the display itself is updated from the buffer at block 194. The process returns to the main program via block 136.

The NO branch from decision block 186 advances execution to block 196. At block 196, all current data is adjusted by an order of magnitude. The currently selected value is then set as the closest possible value. In other words, if 8 is the currently selected value, then the newly selected value is 10. If the currently selected value is 33, the newly selected value is 30. From block 198, execution returns to blocks 190, 192 and 194 with the same response as above.

The JOIN routine is block 13
It relates to the user use of a direct manipulation technique for coupling the control of two or more data scrollers, entered via 2. The generation of suitable graphics for the operation of the combined scroller is indicated at block 200. Next, decision block 202 determines if a precision change was requested. Along the YES branch from block 202, block 204 is executed to make such a precision change for each data scroller. Block 20
4 or along the NO branch from decision block 202, block 206 for the decision whose value change was requested.
Reach Along the YES branch of decision block 206,
At action block 208, the value of each element is changed. Along the NO branch from block 208 or from decision block 206, operation is forwarded to min / max detection in block 210. If a minimum or maximum value was requested, the displayed value for each scroller is block 212.
Is moved to the extremum of each element of. Block 214 is reached either along the NO branch from block 212 or from decision block 210. Block 214 relates to updating the display scroller image and transferring the display scroller image to the video display device. Blocks 204, 208 and 21
2 utilizes the appropriate subroutine of each scroller coupled to JOIN control.

FIG. 11 is an external view showing a window 300 in which the graphic features (functions) of the present invention can be executed. Mouse pointer 301 is positioned within window 300 for dragging icons from palette 306 and manipulating creation in one of various input fields. The window 300 also includes an identification bar 302 and a menu bar 304, which are well known to those skilled in the art. Most of the window 300 has a graph display field 30.
8. The text equation data input field 310 and the graphic equation data input field 312 are occupied. Equations or other algebraic relationships can be found in equation field 31.
Entered by typing 0 or dragging the icon from the palette 306 to the graphical equation field 312. One example of a graphics routine is the Personal Application System available from IBM Corporation, which provides two-dimensional or three-dimensional charts. A three-dimensional diagram shows the ability to graphically represent an equation with one dependent variable and up to two independent variables. Independent variables are symbols "x" and "y"
, The dependent variable is identified by the symbol "z", and the parameter is identified by any of the remaining letters of the alphabet or Greek letters or other symbols taken from other sources.

FIG. 12 shows that equation 316 was created for evaluation, an equalized expression was generated containing a series of scroll bar metaphors 318a-318f for the variables and selected parameters, and the current values of the dependent variables were calculated. Shows window 300 after a graph has been generated that illustrates the set of possible solutions of equation 316 that is displayed. Equation 3
The 16 selected parameters had scroll bar metaphors 318d, 318f and 318b provided for the parameters. The value of the dependent variable "z" is manipulated by scroll bar 318a while locking to either scroll bar 318c or 318e (ie, the "x" or "y" solution is detected).

FIG. 13 shows a logic flow diagram for the special procedure accesses required to affect the visual features of the present invention. The steps occur during placement of the action box 134 of FIG. The determination of the user selection of a procedure includes the sequence of decision blocks 220, 222, 224 and 226 and the act of initiating the displayed procedure. OPEN
The (start) routine (step 221) is accessed from the YES branch of decision block 220. The algebraic relationship is created by performing YE from decision block 222 to step 223.
Via the BUILD routine which is accessed along the S branch. The SOLUTION routine for the equation created by routine 221 is accessed via decision block 224 and processing routine 225. To generate a graphical representation of the possible solutions to the equation, it is obtained from decision block 226 via graph routine 227, which is reached along the YES branch. If the user selects an action other than the actions described above, decision blocks 220, 22.
The NO branch from each of 2, 224 and 226 is taken,
Another operation execution block 228 is executed. The routine of FIG. 5 is re-entered via step 136 after step 228.

The OPEN routine involves the generation of the display and input fields shown in FIG. In step 230, the window frame for the graphic equation element is created. In step 232, the palette for graphic equation elements is retrieved. next,
In step 234, an input field for the text-based specification of the equation is created. Next, step 2
At 36, an input field is created for use in entering an equation using a graphics technique that includes a scroll bar. At step 238, a display field is created to graphically represent the possible values of the dependent variable. At step 240, a window is created that includes a data entry field, a display field, and a palette of icons for use in creating equations that use the graphics-based specifications. At step 242, the image of the window is stored in the display buffer, and at step 244, the image of the display buffer is written to the visual display device. Execution returns to the flowchart of FIG. 5 via step 136.

BUILD routines 223 relate to each of two techniques that an operator can use to create equations. Once entered at routine 223, user input is monitored at step 246. As soon as user input is entered, the computer determines whether the user has typed the equation in the appropriate input field or created a graphical representation of the equation in input field 312. Inputs to input field 310 are identified at type decision block 248, and the use of icons to create equation input field 312 is identified at decision block 258. The YES branch from decision block 248 advances execution to block 250 where the particular input is displayed in the text area of input field 310.

Immediately after completion of the equation, decision block 252
Through, the user can decide whether to convert the equation to a graphical representation. If it is decided to convert, the YES branch from decision block 252 continues to action block 254 and causes the text symbol to be converted to graphical form. Next, at action block 255, the user is prompted for a range of values for variables and unspecified parameters in textual form by equation. Such a range is needed to set the data scroller, which is created with all variables and all unspecified parameters. The unspecified parameter is a parameter represented by a character or a symbol, not a parameter represented by a constant. Various values are selected for unspecified parameters. Variables are identified by the use of certain reserved alphabetic characters, eg, x, y, z.
Next, at block 256, the graphic symbol is written to the graphic data input field 312. Operation then returns to step 246 to monitor for additional user input.
If the user does not make a selection to convert the text symbol to graphic format, the action is returned directly to action block 246.

The equations are also created using the icon palette 306 shown in FIGS. Symbols are drawn from the palette 306 into the graphical equation area 312 to create an algebraic relationship. Decision block 258
At, it is determined whether the user has selected such a procedure. Such a procedure uses the mouse pointer 301,
Begin by attaching a token, or icon, from the palette 306. The operation block 262 is
It represents attaching such a symbol or icon to the mouse pointer. At action block 264,
The symbol represented by the icon is the graphic equation area 31.
It is generated at the drop point within 2. Step 26
At 6, 270 and 274 it is determined what the nature of the drop symbol is. If the symbol is a data scroller, it is identified at step 266 and operation proceeds to step 268 to prompt the user to enter the data scroller's label, range data and settings. If the user selects a data scroller, it is assumed that the user will attempt to introduce unspecified parameters into the equation if the user does not label the scroller with the symbol reserved for the variable. The NO branch from decision block 266 proceeds to step 270, where it is determined if the symbol representing the variable has been selected from the palette. In this case, the process creates a data scroller,
In step 272, the user needs to enter range data and settings for the scroller. The NO branch from decision block 270 leads to decision block 274,
Here it is determined whether the symbol is a parameter symbol. If so, at block 276 the user is prompted to enter a value for the parameter. From blocks 268, 272, 276, and decision block 274.
From the NO branch of, the operation returns to step 246 to monitor for additional user input.

The exit from the BUILD routine follows the NO branch from decision blocks 248 and 258. In step 246, the user input is input field 310.
If the user does not type the equation of ## EQU1 ## or manipulate the icon from the palette 306, the NO branch is taken from decision blocks 248 and 258 and decision block 260 is executed to determine if the user chose to close the routine. . The YES branch from close decision block 260
Operation is returned to the main program via step 136. The NO branch from block 260 indicates that the input is false and returns at block 246 to monitor for additional input.

PROCESS Routine 225
Relates to the evaluation of equations created in the BUILD subroutine. At decision block 278, it is determined whether the value of the independent variable was selected by the user. If the value was not selected, then in step 280 the user is prompted to set the value. From step 280, the execution is merged with the YES branch from decision block 278 and in step 282 the value of the dependent variable is calculated. In steps 284 and 286, the calculated value is used to update the display buffer and update its display. Execution then returns to step 136.

The GRAPH routine 227 is
Generate an image of possible solution sets in the two-dimensional or projected three-dimensional image of the display field 308. In action block 288, the solution set for the equation, that is, the possible values of the dependent variable "z", are plotted. At action block 290, the current values of the independent and dependent variables are displayed. In step 292, the process enters a wait cycle to wait for additional user input.
As soon as such an input is entered, decision block 2
At 94, it is determined if the input is a change in the value of an unspecified parameter or variable. When a parameter or variable changes, the processing routine 225 is called to recalculate the value of the dependent variable and execution returns to step 288. In step 288, the solution set of equations is redetermined. The NO branch from decision block 294 exits the process and leads to action block 296 for performing another user-selected action, return block 136.

[0040]

The present invention aids the user in interpreting numerical information. The data may be displayed in log, exponential, complex and irrational numbers. The user is provided with easy and prepared access to scroll through a large discrete set of values of these types of information. Decomposition control allows the user to treat the value selections as a substantially continuous body. The value that moves to the position of the current value is
Displayed in preview mode. Instant selection and display of extreme values are possible. The effect of changing the parameters is reflected in the figure by changing the map of the solution set. Changes in variables are reflected in changes in the points of a fixed solution set.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 shows an external view of a data processing system used in accordance with the method of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a high level block diagram of a program hierarchy for a computer, including a program for performing the method of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is an external view of a computer display screen of a graphic user interface incorporating features provided by the method of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is an external view of a frame of a computer display screen illustrating the features provided by the method of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is an external view of a window with input and display features for implementing the present invention.

12 is an external view of the window of FIG. 11 for solution and display after entering equations.

FIG. 13 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a logical flow chart for the method of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 300 window 302 identification bar 304 menu bar 306 palette 308 display field 310 input field 312 equation input field 316 equation 318 scroll bar

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[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] January 27, 1993

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be amended] Title of invention

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

Title: Data processing system and value selection method

[Procedure Amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] Claim 5

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Procedure 3]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Name of item to be corrected] Claim 6

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0010

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

A data processing system for controlling selection of a value of at least a first independent variable in an equation and graphically displaying a result of evaluation of the equation, wherein at least the equation of the first independent variable is evaluated according to user selection. For inputting into the data processing system, for scrolling the stepwise visual indicia of the range of values of each independent variable, the instruction means for displaying on the visual display device of the metaphor, and each scrolling according to the user selection Commanding means for changing the range of metaphor values, commanding means for changing the accuracy of the gradual visual indicia in response to user selection, and scrolling for use in solving equations in response to user selection Command means for selecting a value from each displayed range of the metaphor, command means for solving an equation to obtain the value of the dependent variable, and dependent variable And a data processing system that graphically displays the value of.

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Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A data processing system for graphically displaying the values of dependent variables of an equation in at least a first independent variable, and means for inputting at least an equation of the first independent variable in response to user selection. , Scrolling means for displaying stepwise visual indicia of the range of values of each independent variable according to user selection, and for changing the accuracy of stepwise visual indicia according to user selection Means, a means for selecting the value of each independent variable from the scrolling means, depending on the user selection, a means for solving the equation entered to obtain the value of the dependent variable, and a method for obtaining the value of the dependent variable. A data processing system comprising means for graphically displaying a solution. 2. The data processing system according to claim 1, further comprising stepwise visual indicia of a range of values of the dependent variable centered on the most recent solution in the equation determined by the solving means. 3. Selecting at least a value of the first independent variable,
A method performed by a data processing system including a visual display device, the method comprising: inputting an equation of at least a first independent variable in response to user selection; and a stepwise visual representation of a range of values for each independent variable. Displaying the scroll metaphor for the indicia, changing the range of values displayed in each scroll metaphor in response to user selection, and changing the gradual visual indicia precision in response to user selection And, depending on the user selection, selecting a value from the displayed range of each scrolling metaphor for actuation of the equation, solving the equation to obtain the value of the dependent variable, and graphically displaying the value of the dependent variable. And a value selection method including. 4. The value selection of claim 3, further comprising the step of displaying a stepwise visual indicia of the range of values of the dependent variable centered on the value of the most recent solution in the input equation. Method. 5. A data processing program product for controlling the selection of the value of at least a first independent variable in an equation and graphically displaying the result of the evaluation of the equation, wherein at least the first independent variable is selected in accordance with user selection. Command means for inputting the equations of the equations into the data processing system for evaluation, stepwise visual indication of the range of values of each independent variable, instruction means for displaying on the metaphor visual display device, and user selection Accordingly, the instruction means for changing the value range of each scroll metaphor, the instruction means for changing the accuracy of the stepwise visual mark according to the user's selection, and the equation for the equation according to the user's selection. Instructional means to select a value from each displayed range of the scroll metaphor for use in the solution, and instructions to solve the equation to obtain the value of the dependent variable. A data processing program product comprising an instruction means and an instruction means for graphically displaying the values of dependent variables. 6. Data according to claim 5, further comprising means for displaying stepwise visual indicia of the range of values of the dependent variable, said range of values comprising the value of the most recent solution in the equation. Processing program product.