Network-based configuration method for systems integration in test, measurement, and automation environments
AssigneeVI Technology, Inc.
InventorsRichard W. House, Cesar R. Gamez, Francis E. Hinkle, Jr.
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Network-based methods and systems are disclosed for configuring and building systems and providing systems integration for the test, automation and measurement environment. The methods include internet or intranet-based applications that configure and quote a system or system integration project in response to selection of system features, system components and/or system configurations by a network user. The methods may be implemented as part of a build-to-order internet application.
Claims45
A method for providing integrated systems for test, measurement and automation (TMA) environments, comprising:
- providing a plurality of selectable configuration options to a user through a network, the selectable configuration options representing features for a TMA system;
- receiving information representing configuration options selected by a user;
- assembling a plurality of TMA components to produce a TMA system that satisfies the user-selected configuration options;
- providing systems integration for the TMA system to produce an integrated TMA system;
- and
- fulfilling an order for the user-configured TMA system with the integrated TMA system.
The method of 21, wherein the estimated completion date is determined using an adaptive formula, the adaptive formula being capable of adapting itself based on historical completion times for previously assembled and fulfilled integrated TMA systems.
A method for providing through a network cost information for integrated systems within test, measurement and automation (TMA) environments, comprising:
- providing a plurality of selectable configuration options to a user through a network, the selectable configuration options representing features for a TMA system;
- receiving information representing configuration options selected by a user;
- identifying a plurality of TMA components for a TMA system that would satisfy the user-selected configuration options;
- determining systems integration that would be required to satisfy the user-selected configuration options;
- generating a price for the integrated TMA system, the price including a cost for the plurality of TMA components and a cost for the systems integration required to produce the integrated TMA system;
- and
- providing the price to the user through the network.
The method of 31, further comprising receiving an order for the integrated TMA system, and fulfilling the order with an integrated TMA system configured and built to meet the user-selected configuration options.
The method of 31, wherein the integrated TMA system price is determined using an adaptive formula, the adaptive formula capable of adapting itself based on historical cost data for assembly of previously assembled integrated TMA systems.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.