Tier 1
Series 4
4B: The Switch Station
"A control tower doesn't ask ten different questions to find out where a plane is. It checks the transponder code and immediately knows the flight's status. If your AI uses an endless chain of else if statements to manage drone modes, you've created Logic Drag. A skilled Engineer audits for Switch Statements."
The Concept: Switch Expressions
When you have a single variable (like an Enum) that can be in multiple states, a Switch Statement is cleaner and more performant than a long list of if-else checks.
Single Point of Entry: You only evaluate the variable once.
Readability: Each "case" acts as a clear platform for a specific behavior.
The Default Gate: Always include a default case to catch unexpected states.
Single Point of Entry: You only evaluate the variable once.
Readability: Each "case" acts as a clear platform for a specific behavior.
The Default Gate: Always include a default case to catch unexpected states.
Red Flag Detected
The AI Trap: "The Else-If Ladder"
You ask the AI: "Handle different behaviors for Idle, Patrol, and Attack modes."
// AI-Generated Code: Fragile and Repetitive
void Update() {
if (state == DroneState.Idle) {
StayPut();
} else if (state == DroneState.Patrol) {
FollowPath();
} else if (state == DroneState.Attack) {
OpenFire();
}
// Audit Fail: What happens if state is 'Returning'?
// The code silently skips everything.
}
This is "Logic Fragmentation." Each else if requires the computer to re-evaluate the state variable. If you have 20 states, the bottom of the list is significantly slower than the top.
Elite Telemetry
Research shows "Elite" teams achieve 15% faster lead times by keeping AI on a "very tight leash."
- Small Batches Solving one problem at a time prevents logic drift.
- Modular Design Localizing the "blast radius" of AI changes.
- Tight Loops Rapid iteration with constant code review.
The Mechanic's Correction
Corrective Protocol
void Update() {
// Corrected: Evaluation happens once.
switch (state) {
case DroneState.Idle: StayPut(); break;
case DroneState.Patrol: FollowPath(); break;
case DroneState.Attack: OpenFire(); break;
default:
Debug.LogWarning("Unknown State Detected!");
break;
}
}
Your Pilot Command
> Use an Interface for the Weapon system to easily swap modules.