Data Set Difference Visualization via Unified Graph Overlay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data visualization methods do not effectively highlight differences between data sets, requiring users to maintain and access multiple graphs to identify changes, which is resource-intensive and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A visualization system and method that determines and plots differences between two data sets by generating graphs that illustrate values and missing elements, reducing the need for multiple graphs and optimizing resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional data visualization methods are used to show changes between data sets, then a new visualization is generated for each data state, but this requires maintaining and accessing multiple graphs which increases device complexity and resource consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple data sets into a single visualization by overlaying them on the same graphical axes. The system plots data points from different data sets using distinct visual markers (e.g., different colors or symbols) so that users can compare changes between data states without needing to switch between multiple separate graphs, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining information completeness
Solution Approach 2:
The visualization system is designed to handle multiple data sets simultaneously within a single graph framework. The plotting mechanism serves multiple functions: displaying individual data points, showing trend lines for each data set, highlighting differences through visual differentiation, and providing a unified comparison interface, thereby eliminating the need for multiple specialized graphs
2Ease of operation
If animation is used to illustrate changes from previous state to new state, then the transition is visualized, but differences between states are not emphasized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different visual qualities to different elements within the same visualization. Data points from different data sets are rendered with distinct local characteristics (different colors, markers, or line styles), and difference-highlighting features are applied selectively to specific data points or regions where changes occur, allowing users to easily identify transitions while maintaining overall context
3Loss of information
If multiple graphs are maintained to identify changes between data sets, then complete data representation is achieved, but resource consumption including processor cycles, network traffic, memory usage, and storage capacity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple data set visualizations into a single graph structure, reducing the need to generate, transmit, and store multiple separate graph files. By consolidating data representation into one unified visualization, the system decreases processor cycles required for rendering, reduces network traffic for data transmission, and lowers memory and storage requirements while preserving complete data representation
Solution Approach 2:
The single visualization framework is designed to universally handle multiple data sets through a unified plotting mechanism. This multi-functional approach allows the system to represent all data sets simultaneously using shared graphical elements and axes, eliminating redundant resource consumption associated with maintaining multiple separate graph structures while ensuring complete data representation
Data Source
AI summary
A visualization system suitable for visualizing differences between data sets is provided. The system determines a first data set and a second data set along with a difference between the first and second data set. A value corresponding to each unit of display of the second data set is plotted on at least one graph. The visualization system determines, for each unit of display of the second data set, whether the first data set has a value for the unit of display. In response to the first data set having the value, the visualization system plots a difference of the value of the first data set on the at least one graph. In response to the first data set not having the value, the visualization system plots a missing structure element on the at least one graph. The at least one graph is displayed to a user.