26 research outputs found
A Systematic Approach to Constructing Incremental Topology Control Algorithms Using Graph Transformation
Communication networks form the backbone of our society. Topology control
algorithms optimize the topology of such communication networks. Due to the
importance of communication networks, a topology control algorithm should
guarantee certain required consistency properties (e.g., connectivity of the
topology), while achieving desired optimization properties (e.g., a bounded
number of neighbors). Real-world topologies are dynamic (e.g., because nodes
join, leave, or move within the network), which requires topology control
algorithms to operate in an incremental way, i.e., based on the recently
introduced modifications of a topology. Visual programming and specification
languages are a proven means for specifying the structure as well as
consistency and optimization properties of topologies. In this paper, we
present a novel methodology, based on a visual graph transformation and graph
constraint language, for developing incremental topology control algorithms
that are guaranteed to fulfill a set of specified consistency and optimization
constraints. More specifically, we model the possible modifications of a
topology control algorithm and the environment using graph transformation
rules, and we describe consistency and optimization properties using graph
constraints. On this basis, we apply and extend a well-known constructive
approach to derive refined graph transformation rules that preserve these graph
constraints. We apply our methodology to re-engineer an established topology
control algorithm, kTC, and evaluate it in a network simulation study to show
the practical applicability of our approachComment: This document corresponds to the accepted manuscript of the
referenced journal articl
Using graphical style and visibility constraints for a meaningful layout in visual programming interfaces
In the expanding field of visual applications, layout design and graphical editing tasks are crucial points. In this paper, we address the incorporation of AI aspects in the visual software design process and the automatic layout and beautification of informational graphics such as visual programs and chart diagrams. Since layout in dynamic settings frequently requires a direct manipulation responsiveness, an incremental redesign of the generated visual material is necessary. Following our previous work on constraint-based multimodal design, we show how powerful constraint processing techniques, such as constraint hierarchies and dynamic constraint satisfaction, can be applied to visual programming environments in order to maintain graphical style and consistency for a meaningful layout. We describe InLay, a system for constraint-based presenting and editing visual programs. Finally, we will have a short look at some extensions with regard to advanced interaction and visualization techniques
Visual iconic object-oriented programming to advance computer science education and novice programming
Learning how to program a computer is difficult for most people. Computer programming is a cognitively challenging, time consuming, labor intensive, and frustrating endeavor. Years of formal study and training are required to learn a programming language\u27s world of algorithms and data structures. Instructions are coded in advance before the computer demonstrates the desired behavior. Seeing all the programming steps and instruction code is complicated. There exists a tremendous gap between the representations the human brain uses when thinking about a problem and the representations used in programming a computer. Often people are much better at dealing with specific, concrete objects than working with abstract ideas. Concrete and specific programming examples and demonstrations can be very useful. When cleverly chosen and properly used, programming examples and demonstrations help people understand the abstract concepts. Programming by example or demonstration attempts to extend these novel ideas to novice programming
Principles of Query Visualization
Query Visualization (QV) is the problem of transforming a given query into a
graphical representation that helps humans understand its meaning. This task is
notably different from designing a Visual Query Language (VQL) that helps a
user compose a query. This article discusses the principles of relational query
visualization and its potential for simplifying user interactions with
relational data.Comment: 20 pages, 12 figures, preprint for IEEE Data Engineering Bulleti
Jogo para aprender a programar
Neste documento foi feita a apresentação do conceito de Programação Visual, estudados alguns exemplos
de Linguagens de Programação Visual e investigado vantagens e desvantagens sobre o seu uso comparativamente
à programação tradicional (por texto) e, adicionalmente, foram estudados três jogos para aprender
a programar com fortes características visuais. A partir desta investigação, foi criada uma nova Linguagem
de Programação Visual(LPV) sendo a base de um prototipo de um jogo para aprender a programar. Este
jogo é representado pela deslocação e execução de tarefas feitas por um robô dentro de uma casa, sendo
o objetivo do programador colocar objetos nesta casa que manipulam a deslocação do robô dentro desta
de forma a resolver um problema; Abstract:
A game to learn programming
Aplication of concepts of visual programming to create a game to learn how to
program
In this document we will explain the concept of Visual Programming, study some examples of Visual
Programming Languages, analyze some arguments in favor and against its use in comparison to traditional
programming (by text) and, additionally, study three games to learn programming with strong visual
features. Using this research, a new Visual Programming Language(VPL) was created, being the basis of
a prototype of a game to learn programming. This game is represented by the movement and execution
of tasks done by a robot inside a house, being the goal of the programmer to place objects in this house
that manipulate the movement of the robot inside of it in order to solve a problem
Research in constraint-based layout, visualization, CAD, and related topics : a bibliographical survey
The present work compiles numerous papers in the area of computer-aided design, graphics, layout configuration, and user interfaces in general. There is nearly no conference on graphics, multimedia, and user interfaces that does not include a section on constraint-based graphics; on the other hand most conferences on constraint processing favour applications in graphics. This work of bibliographical pointers may serve as a basis for a detailed and comprehensive survey of this important and challenging field in the intersection of constraint processing and graphics. In order to reach this ambitious aim, and also to keep this study up-to-date, the authors appreciate any comment and update information