Evolution of a Graphical User Interface for the Rapid Prototyping of Real-Time Embedded Systems.
Abstract
The Computer-Aided Prototyping System (CAPS) is an integrated collection of software tools that support the development of software systems utilizing the prototype paradigm. Central to CAPS is the Prototype System Description Language (PSDL). The PSDL Editor supplied in CAPS Release 1 provided a unique combination of a graphical interface for editing PSDL data flow diagrams and an attribute-grammar based text editor to enforce syntactically correct PSDL prototypes. Feedback from CAPS users highlighted on productivity impacts due to the dual user interface as well as the steep learning curve required to become proficient with the attribute- grammar based text editor. This research initiates the development of the next generation of the CAPS PSDL Editor, focusing on the graph editor. Our approach provides a single graphical user interface with pull-down menus for editing both graphical and text information. Automatic syntax generation and validation as well as limited semantic validation is provided by a background syntax/semantics checker. The result of this research is a working graph editor meeting all the new requirements. When integrated with a the new syntax/semantics checker, CAPS Release 2 will have a PSDL Editor with enhanced capabilities and expected productivity improvements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA341448
Entities
People
- Kenneth B. Moeller
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School