Technical paper
A Synopsis Of Software Technologies Used In Today's Engineering Software
Most engineers have little familiarity with the software technologies that provide the framework for the variety of applications they employ, from word processors to process simulators. While adequate for casual use of an application, a more thorough understanding of these technologies is required in order to extend an application and provide custom behavior. Usually the effort required to perform small customizations is not significant provided the framework is understood. This paper introduces Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), OLE Automation, and Extensible Markup Language (XML), three common technologies used in programs. A conceptual discussion of OOP is presented along with examples where the paradigm may be encountered. Automation is introduced with illustrations of how this feature can extend an application. Finally, XML is summarized along with a discussion of some of the tools and supporting technologies used with XML. The aim of this paper is to give a basic understanding of how and when these technologies can be exploited based on specific applications and tasks.
Most engineers have little familiarity with the software technologies that provide the framework for the variety of applications they employ, from word processors to process simulators. While adequate for casual use of an application, a more thorough understanding of these technologies is required in order to extend an application and provide custom behavior. Usually the effort required to perform small customizations is not significant provided the framework is understood. This paper introduces Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), OLE Automation, and Extensible Markup Language (XML), three common technologies used in programs. A conceptual discussion of OOP is presented along with examples where the paradigm may be encountered. Automation is introduced with illustrations of how this feature can extend an application. Finally, XML is summarized along with a discussion of some of the tools and supporting technologies used with XML. The aim of this paper is to give a basic understanding of how and when these technologies can be exploited based on specific applications and tasks.