3D Data Tree for Cyber Event Stream Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data visualization techniques for cybercrime are ineffective, leading to 'visual spaghetti' and cognitive dissonance, failing to provide a clear representation of cyber data streams.
Innovation Solution
A method for displaying a live stream of events using a dynamically-constructed three-dimensional data tree with a tubular structure, where messages are represented as blip objects along limb objects, aligned with the z-axis, and displayed on a graphical user interface, allowing for a clear visualization of cyber data over time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If geographical or physical data visualization techniques are used, then data can be displayed, but visual spaghetti and cognitive dissonance occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional geographical/physical maps to a three-dimensional tree structure with temporal depth. The z-axis represents time progression, while x and y axes represent hierarchical data relationships, creating a multi-dimensional visualization that separates temporal evolution from spatial hierarchy, thereby eliminating visual clutter and cognitive dissonance.
Solution Approach 2:
The visualization divides cyber data streams into discrete temporal segments represented as sequential tree nodes along the z-axis. Each time segment contains organized sub-elements (events, messages, anomalies) that are hierarchically structured, allowing complex data to be broken into manageable, visually distinct units that prevent information overload.
2Loss of information
If traditional data visualization methods are used, then data display is achieved, but clear representation of cyber data streams is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The visualization system dynamically adapts the tree structure to reflect real-time cyber data stream evolution. New data automatically creates new temporal nodes and updates existing branches, maintaining an ever-current representation that naturally guides user understanding through animated transitions and temporal progression along the z-axis.
Solution Approach 2:
By adding the temporal dimension (z-axis) to traditional hierarchical visualization, the patent enables users to perceive cyber data streams as evolving processes rather than static snapshots. This extra dimension provides intuitive temporal context and makes data flow patterns immediately recognizable, greatly enhancing ease of understanding.
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamically configured tree form and corresponding graphical elements graphically represent information contained in a live stream of event data. The tree form is positioned in virtual three dimensional space within a computer graphical user interface such that the root of the tree is in the center of the screen, originating at the farthest distance from the viewer along the z axis. The tree form is configured to guide movement of the three dimensional graphical elements which represent individual measurements of events during specific time periods. The outermost, or leaf, portions of the tree represent the present time. The root or base of the tree represents the maximum duration that is being measured.