Interactive Arborescence Layout for Hierarchical Graph Exploration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graph visualization methods struggle to efficiently display and navigate large, hierarchical data structures, such as corporate hierarchies, due to limitations in interactivity and the ability to identify trends and patterns, particularly in representing complex relationships and attributes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that uses a user interaction loop to recursively compute the layout of an arborescence in a connected graph by comparing user-selected attributes with node attributes, determining distance-dependent quantities, and generating layout data for coordinates, allowing for dynamic and interactive visualization of hierarchical data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional graph visualization methods are used to display large hierarchical data structures, then the complete graph structure can be shown, but the interactivity and ability to identify trends and patterns deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large hierarchical graph into smaller arborescence views centered on focal nodes. Instead of displaying the entire complex graph at once, it divides the visualization into manageable portions that can be explored interactively, allowing users to focus on specific regions and patterns without being overwhelmed by the overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional dimension of interaction by allowing users to select attributes and dynamically reconfigure the graph layout. This transforms the static 2D graph visualization into an interactive multi-dimensional exploration space where users can navigate through different attribute perspectives, thereby enhancing pattern recognition capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If the complete graph is displayed at once, then all nodes and relationships are visible, but user interaction and navigation efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-computing arborescence layouts and organizing the graph data structure before user interaction. This preparation allows the system to quickly respond to user selections and provide immediate visual feedback, reducing navigation time without sacrificing ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic graph visualization where the layout adapts in real-time based on user attribute selections. The system dynamically reconfigures the arborescence views to highlight relevant patterns and relationships, making navigation more efficient and interactive exploration more intuitive.
3Adaptability or versatility
If static graph visualization is used, then implementation is simple, but the ability to dynamically explore attributes and relationships deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal visualization framework that handles multiple graph attributes and relationship types through a unified arborescence-based approach. This multi-functional system can adapt to different exploration needs while maintaining a consistent interface, enhancing versatility without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A computing system, program products and computer-implemented method of exploring data comprises accessing data structures and executing an interaction loop. Data structure captures connected graph nodes associated with attributes containing human-readable data. Interaction loop receives user-selected attributes associated with focal nodes and executes subroutines to determine layouts of an arborescence extending from focal nodes. The subroutines use starting nodes and pivot attributes as arguments. Identifying nodes of subroutines are connected to starting nodes by walking the graph and comparing pivot attributes with attributes associated with connected nodes, obtaining distance-dependent quantities. Subroutines compute layout data, including coordinates of the connected nodes. Coordinates are determined in accordance with the distance-dependent quantities. Interaction loop displays arborescence according to the layout data. Subroutines can be recursively executed, whereby, at each recursion level of execution, it is called with the selected attribute and each node of a selection of nodes, as a starting node.