Patent ID: 6154763
Filing Date: 2000-11-28
Classification: G05B

Abstract:
A computer method for specifying a system, the method comprising executing the following in at least one data processing device:a. setting forth a structure of interconnected functional modules at respective hierarchical levels, each module embodying a respective state-based machine, wherein.alpha.. each non-top level first module comprisesi. a transformer link, connected to a single second module at a next higher level, for enabling, a relevant change-of-state of the first module,ii. an observer link for receiving a state enquiry signal from the second module, andiii. an event link for outputting a solicited event signal to the second module,iv. means for retrosignalling an internal autonomously executed step.beta.. each non-bottom module is, as such second module, arranged for at least connecting to one or more lower level modules, each of which then functions as such first module, and.gamma.. a top module is arranged at least for signal exchanging with an environment, andb) for at least said first module, entering each said step into a single, step scheduler for the system, in order to render such step autonomously executable, said entering being subject to a preconditioning transformer signal to be received from said second module.