User Driven Modelling Explanation - Wing Spar

Figure 1 illustrates the implementation of the translation stages. Step 1 is creation of the ontology, which is then translated to the decision support and modelling tool (Vanguard System) for Step 2. Step 2 is illustrated to the right, and this shows colour coding of the taxonomies (sub ontologies) that make up the ontology e.g. parts, processes, and materials. Step 3 involves translations to visualisations for the web (using Semantic Web formats) and alternative representations. Step 3 can also produce program and/or meta-program code.





Figure 1. Stepped Translation and Visualisation

Figure 2 demonstrates the ontology translated via Step 2 into XML for Step 3 visualisation in Flash (see reference end of article). This creates a tree with a three dimensional look, colour and shading, and interactive repositioning of nodes to make it intuitive and assist in navigation. When a node is chosen, this is moved to the centre of the display and all the other nodes are moved or rotated to position themselves in relation to it.

Figure 2. Flash interface for navigating exported XML tree

Figure 3 shows the view resulting from choosing the 'SparPart Definition'. This shows the parents, children, siblings, and contents of that node. It also allows navigation to any of the related nodes.

Figure 3. Flash viewing of Spar Part Definition node

Figure 4 is produced via an automated conversion from a tree representation of the spar component. The interface demonstrates modelling of information within a browser; ‘Periphery’, ‘Area’, ‘Raw Volume’, ‘Finished Volume’, ‘Part Width’ and ‘Part Height’ are all calculated dynamically. This calculation is in response to changes the user makes to the attributes on the left; as these changes are made the diagram changes in response.


Figure 4. Interactive Spar Diagram (SVG)

Reference

Rhodes, G., Macdonald, J., Jokol, K., Prudence, P., Aylward, P., Shepherd, R., Yard, T., 2002. A Flash Family Tree, In: Flash MX Application and Interface Design Flash MX Application and Interface Design. ISBN:1590591585. [online]. Available from: http://www.friendsofed.com/book.html?isbn=1590591585.