Abstract: A graphical programming interface for use in developing computer programs uses a structure of graphically displayed elements representing positions, arguments and linkages to enable the development of computational decision making programs. The present invention provides new functionality to a clipper element that allows for simple division of a range of input values into contiguous sub-ranges, such as may be used to define a curve or other function.

Abstract: An electronic circuit for use in providing computational decision-making capabilities. The circuit implements a hierarchy of decision-making cells, with outputs derived from input signals supplying argument values, configuration signals for controlling the decision making model and wires between cells defining relationships between cells that modify the decision-making model of dependent cells. The cells are primarily characterized by modified values that may represent outputs although they may have a variety of other function features such as importance values and threshold values. The arguments are characterized by argument values that may represent inputs. The arguments are associated with particular cells and the values of the arguments associated with a given cell are combined to determine the value of that cell. The wires between different cells define different types of functional relationships between them.

Abstract: An operating system particularly designed for application programs to be used on embedded computers in appliances and the like is constructed in a modular basis. The application program is scanned for calls to the operating system and the particular modules of the operating system required for the application program are collected into an operating system kernel which may be linked and loaded with the application system into the embedded application.