METHOD OF PROGRAMMING A PROCESSING SYSTEM

摘要

A method of programming a processing system utilizing a computer having a configuration canvas and an instrument canvas. The method comprises the steps of placing object icons each associated with function objects onto the configuration canvas. Execution paths are automatically routed between the object icons. Data flow paths are also created between the object icons. At least one visual instrument is placed onto the instrument canvas. An instrument icon associated with the visual instrument is automatically placed onto a temporary pane. The instrument icon is moved from the temporary pane to place the instrument icon onto the configuration canvas. A data flow path is then created between the instrument icon and one of the object icons such that the visual instrument on the instrument canvas is operationally connected to the processing configuration on the configuration canvas. Alternatively, at least one instrument icon can be first placed onto the configuration canvas. The visual instrument associated with the instrument icon is then automatically placed onto the temporary pane. The visual instrument is then moved from the temporary pane onto the instrument canvas.