Circular GUI for Virtual Machine Log Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Complex virtual machine networks generate large volumes of log data, making it difficult for system administrators to identify the root cause of issues due to the use of codes or abbreviations that require translation, relying heavily on experience and creativity for filtering and reviewing log entries.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface is provided that displays log data entries in a circular format with slices representing virtual machines and hosts, using color-coding to indicate the state of entities, allowing for quick visualization and filtering of relevant data without extensive translation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If log data entries are displayed in text format with codes and abbreviations, then the information density is high, but the ease of understanding and review deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical user interface that acts as an intermediary between the raw log data and the system administrator. The GUI translates codes and abbreviations into visual representations (icons, colors, graphs) that are easier to understand, while maintaining the underlying data integrity. This mediator layer resolves the contradiction by preserving information density in the backend while providing ease of understanding in the frontend display.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of reading and interpreting text-based log entries with an automated graphical display system. Instead of manually reading text codes, the system automatically generates visual representations that convey the same information more intuitively, substituting human cognitive processing with automated visual encoding and decoding.
2Loss of information
If the entire log file is translated to understand codes and abbreviations, then complete information is obtained, but the time required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by translating and displaying only the most relevant log entries graphically rather than translating the entire log file. The system identifies and highlights critical issues through visual cues, allowing administrators to focus on important information without investing time in translating every single entry. This selective approach maintains completeness of critical information while dramatically reducing translation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color coding to convey the significance and status of different log entries. Critical errors, warnings, and informational messages are distinguished by color, allowing administrators to quickly assess the overall system state and prioritize which entries require detailed translation and analysis. This visual prioritization reduces the time needed to process complete information.
3Ease of operation
If filtering is limited to log data entry types or time, then the filtering process is simple, but the ability to limit entries to problem-related entries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic filtering capabilities that adapt to the problem context. The filtering system can dynamically adjust based on selected virtual machines, hosts, or time periods, and can automatically refine filters as the administrator investigates issues. This dynamic approach maintains operational simplicity while significantly improving the relevance of displayed entries by contextually adapting to the specific problem being investigated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the graphical display provides information about the filtering results, allowing administrators to assess whether the filtered entries are relevant to the problem. The system can provide feedback on the number and type of entries displayed, enabling administrators to adjust filters iteratively to achieve optimal relevance while maintaining simple filter controls.
4Adaptability or versatility
If system administrators rely on experience and creativity to find root causes, then flexibility in problem-solving is maintained, but the difficulty and time required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to perform self-service by automatically analyzing log data, identifying patterns, and presenting findings in a structured graphical format. The system can automatically correlate events across multiple virtual machines and hosts, identify potential root causes, and suggest remediation steps. This reduces the burden on administrators while maintaining flexibility, as the system handles the complex analysis work that previously required extensive human experience and creativity.
Data Source
AI summary
A graphical user interface for displaying information related to a virtual machine network is disclosed. In an embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium stores instructions that, when executed by a computer, enable a graphical user interface to be displayed. The graphical user interface, which assists in graphical representation of log data entries in a virtual machine network, includes a circular element that is divided into slices and virtual machine indicator elements that represent virtual machines within each slice. The slices represent various groupings of the virtual machines within the virtual machine network.