Graphical User Interface Data Cell Filter Interaction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for managing computer database information are inefficient when multiple hierarchical filters need to be re-specified, requiring a multi-stage process that slows operational efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A graphical user interface that allows users to modify search criteria by interacting with data cells, using a pointer to add or remove filter criteria without the need for a separate 'Apply filters' button, enabling automatic filtering and updating of database data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If multiple hierarchical filters are re-specified using traditional methods, then filter criteria can be changed, but the process requires multi-stage operations and resetting from scratch, slowing operational efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefilter application processVSAvoidtime to change filters

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by automatically applying filter criteria as soon as the user hovers over a data cell, without requiring the user to complete a multi-stage process. The filter is pre-applied in real-time, eliminating the need to reset and re-enter filters from scratch, thus reducing the time to change filters while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system serves itself by automatically detecting user intent through pointer positioning and autonomously applying the appropriate filter criteria. The system monitors pointer movements and automatically modifies search criteria without requiring explicit user commands or multiple interaction stages, thereby reducing operational time while preserving ease of use

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of operation

If traditional filter interfaces with reserved fields and columned lists are used, then search parameters can be entered, but the interface complexity increases and operational efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefilter specificationVSAvoidgraphical interface structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts the filter application functionality from complex traditional interfaces (reserved fields, columned lists) and integrates it directly into the data display cells. Users interact with familiar data cells rather than separate filter interfaces, eliminating the need for complex graphical structures while maintaining ease of filter specification

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

Data cells serve multiple functions: they display database information and simultaneously act as filter selection interfaces. When a user hovers over a data cell, it automatically becomes the basis for filter criteria, combining data display and filter specification into a single universal element, thereby reducing interface complexity while preserving ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10552018B2Methods and systems to display data records extracted from a database via a graphical user interface

Publication Date: 2020.02.04 VIGOR SYSTEMS INC

AI summary

A system and method for managing display of database records are provided. The method includes determining whether a pointer is positioned over a data cell of a plurality of data cells of a graphical user interface; in response to receiving an actuation signal related to the pointer while the pointer is determined to be over the data cell, automatically modifying search criteria applied to database data according to the data of the data cell; and automatically outputting the database data filtered by the modified search criteria to the graphical user interface.