Robert X Nees

US Patent:

58445544, Dec 1, 1998

Filed:

Sep 17, 1996

Appl. No.:

8/718645

Inventors:

Scott D. Geller - Atlanta GA
Michael S. Heyda - Duluth GA
Robert Nees - Canton GA

Assignee:

BT Squared Technologies, Inc. - Atlanta GA

International Classification:

G06F 1500

US Classification:

345333

Abstract:

A computer implemented method of generating a user product configuration program module from a development environment. The user product configuration program module includes user controls that allow user input of information for use in configuration computations. Methods are disclosed for creating and maintaining the logic for a configuration program module in the form of configuration parameters; creating and maintaining the visual controls and user interface; and linking created visual controls with underlying structure represented by the parameters. Parameters assume values and are indicated as valid or invalid through operation of constraints and queries. Further methods include display of parameter creation and selection windows, and query creation and selection windows for creating SQL queries to access data in external tables. Parameters, queries, and constraints can be displayed in expandable and collapsible hierarchies, and quickly utilized in formulas, queries, and logical expressions by clicking in an expanded hierarchical display. Dependencies occurring in the underlying configuration logic are evaluated in both the forward and reverse direction so as to provide for very fast execution of the resultant configuration program module when a user provides new data via a user control.

US Patent:

6300948, Oct 9, 2001

Filed:

Nov 25, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/199852

Inventors:

Scott D. Geller - Atlanta GA
Michael S. Heyda - Duluth GA
Robert Nees - Canton GA

International Classification:

G06F 1300

US Classification:

345333

Abstract:

A computer implemented method of generating a user product configuration program module from a development environment. The user product configuration program module includes user controls that allow user input of information for use in configuration computations. Methods are disclosed for creating and maintaining the logic for a configuration program module in the form of configuration parameters; creating and maintaining the visual controls and user interface; and linking created visual controls with underlying structure represented by the parameters. Parameters assume values and are indicated as valid or invalid through operation of constraints and queries. Further methods include display of parameter creation and selection windows, and query creation and selection windows for creating SQL queries to access data in external tables. Parameters, queries, and constraints can be displayed in expandable and collapsible hierarchies, and quickly utilized in formulas, queries, and logical expressions by clicking in an expanded hierarchical display. Dependencies occurring in the underlying configuration logic are evaluated in both the forward and reverse direction so as to provide for very fast execution of the resultant configuration program module when a user provides new data via a user control.