A visual programming environment for Turing machines

Visualization and interaction are powerful tools for explaining abstract concepts. We have developed TuBB, a visual and interactive tool for modular design and animation of Turing machines. Unlike previous visual tools for automata that are based on state diagrams, the Turing machines in TuBB are composed of previously defined Turing machines called building blocks. A Turing machine can be pictorially designed, stored in a library, and used as a subprogram to construct more complex Turing machines. In addition, TuBB brings the user constructed machine to life, providing simulations at varying speeds.