A networked control system includes graphical representations of actual devices coupled to a network. The graphical representations include symbols that provide an actual picture of the devices and means for displaying values and status of the devices. A controller uses a system database...http://www.google.com.au/patents/US5675756?utm_source=gb-gplus-sharePatent US5675756 - Monitoring and control system using graphical representations with prelinked parameters for devices within a network 
