POLYMORPHIC DATAFLOW BLOCK DIAGRAM SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROGRAMMING A COMPUTER

A computer system is programmed by a user to perform dataflow computations by constructing a dataflow block diagram that utilizes function icons. At least a subset of the function icons are polymorphic with respect to data type and with respect to data aggregation. A polymorphic function icon is executed by performing a single mathematical operation when its inputs are scalars, while the same icon is executed on an element when its inputs are arrays or a scalar and an array. With cluster inputs, the polymorphic function icon is executed on a component by component basis. Output types of polymorphic function icons are determined by their input types prior to executing the diagram. The system automatically constructs a connection diagram consisting of an icon with connection points that are labelled with the names of associated front panel controls and indicators. A front panel control can be hidden to make the associated control value a constant. To facilitate use of icons, a two dimensional palette of user constructed icons is automatically constructed from a directory of user constructed icons. Further, the name of the virtual instrument associated with an icon is displayed whenever the mouse cursor is proximate the icon. The system also generates a hierarchy diagram in which icons are arranged such that each icon has lines connected to all the icons it uses in its block diagram. A dataflow diagram can be locked to prevent modification thereof while still allowing the dataflow diagram to be executed.