Finite State Machine with Input and Process Render

TL;DR

This paper introduces FSMIPR, an automatic visualization tool that generates simulation videos of finite state machines from formal definitions and input strings, aiding education in computing theory.

Contribution

We developed FSMIPR, a tool that automates FSM visualization and simulation video generation, eliminating manual editing and enhancing teaching methods.

Findings

FSMIPR successfully generates simulation videos for any FSM definition.

The tool improves understanding of FSM concepts for students.

FSMIPR is user-friendly and adaptable for educational use.

Abstract

Finite State Machines are a concept widely taught in undergraduate theory of computing courses. Educators typically use tools with static representations of FSMs to help students visualize these objects and processes; however, all existing tools require manual editing by the instructor. In this poster, we created an automatic visualization tool for FSMs that generates videos of FSM simulation, named Finite State Machine with Input and Process Render (FSMIPR). Educators can input any formal definition of an FSM and an input string, and FSMIPR generates an accompanying video of its simulation. We believe that FSMIPR will be beneficial to students who learn difficult computer theory concepts. We conclude with future work currently in-progress with FSMIPR.