Categories of parameters

The four categories of parameters are described in this table. Parameters are created on the Parameter form, then added to labs on the Lab form. When a parameter is added to a lab, it is assigned to one of these categories.

Parameter Category Description
Rollup Parameters that are calculated for a formula are based on parameter values of the formula’s items. They can be used in calculations of other parameters. For example: SOLIDWT is a rollup parameter of the weight fraction (in %) of solids.
Information Parameters that are not rolled up, but can be used in calculations of other parameters. Users specify values at each formula level. For example, a parameter has a text value of “yes” or “no” if there is a kosher requirement.
Equation Total Equation-based parameters that are calculated from other parameters. For example, a total fat parameter adds values of saturated and non-saturated fat.
Cost Parameters that are associated with one or more formula costs; they are rolled up but separated from the Rollup parameters due to the effects of byproducts on Cost parameters.

To be rolled up, packaging parameters should be added to the lab as Cost.