Flowchart-based control system with active debugging objects

Abstract

A machine programming and control system includes a computer including a processor, memory, a display and a device associated with a process. A flowcharting module executed by the computer generates and edits a flowchart that contains action and decision blocks which define logic for operating the device to further the process. The flowcharting module allows active debugging objects to be added to the flowchart. The active debugging objects provide information relating debugging of flowchart code and/or debugging of a portion of the process that is related to the flowchart code. The active debugging object includes at least one of audio, a movie clip, a link to a website, and text demonstrating the desired operation of the process. The active debugging object includes at least one of audio, a movie clip, a link to a website, and text describing correct values for control variables at a first logical point in the flowchart.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.