Conversational, On-Line Computing with the 'OPTISEP' Subroutines

Abstract

<p> An examination of the Man-Machine interface as found in the Designers Computer aided optimization techniques OPTIPAC/OPTISEP is first presented. Several guidelines for the implementation of an improved interface using a time-shared computer system are then described. </p> <p> A graphic means of assessing the behaviour of an optimization problem's objective function and the various constraints acting upon it is then outlined in the form of the subroutine OPTPLOT. Several sample plots involving the optimization of system reliability are then generated using a conversational programming technique.</p> <p> The same programming technique is then applied to the OPTISEP series of subroutines and a demonstration of the system using the previous sample problem is included.</p> <p> A hypothetical, but truly interactive system is then postulated and the possibilities for its implementation at McMaster with the facilities presently available are outlined. </p>