Real-time multimedia visual programming system

Abstract

A user friendly visual programming system with a visual programming interface that allows a user to visually create multimedia programs in real-time. In this system, input and output functions are represented as graphical input and receive interface leads, respectively. A user with no programming skill easily links desired transmit interface leads to desired receive interface leads. In real-time, the output devices perform the functions associated with receive interface leads and any changes to the receive interface leads that occur as a result of any links to transmit interface leads. The user may create complex programs by encapsulating input and receive interface leads in an endless number encapsulation layers.

1 . A method for easily programming the interoperability of computer components, input/output devices and the like, said method is implemented as a user interface on a host computer, said method comprising: 
 representing input and output functions of the input and output devices as graphical input and output controls, respectively;    selecting an transmit control;    selecting at least one receive control;    linking the selected transmit control to the selected at least one receive control;    controlling the output functions of the output devices by manipulating the input device corresponding to transmit control that is linked to the at least one receive control that corresponds to at least one input device.