Hierarchical Data Wheel for Weighted Node Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical representations of hierarchical data, such as tree diagrams, face limitations in displaying multiple levels of objectives and conveying the relative weight of each objective, making it difficult to visualize and navigate large hierarchical datasets effectively.
Innovation Solution
A graphical hierarchical data wheel is introduced, where hierarchical nodes are represented as weighted sectors of a circle, with additional levels depicted as concentric rings, allowing for a high-density display of information and intuitive navigation by size and status, enabling users to quickly understand node position, status, and relevance within the hierarchy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tree diagram is used to display hierarchical data, then the hierarchical structure and relationships are clearly visualized, but the relative weight of each node is not readily ascertainable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color intensity variations to represent different weight values of nodes. Nodes with higher weights are displayed with more intense or saturated colors, while nodes with lower weights use less intense colors. This allows users to quickly perceive the relative importance of different nodes through color intensity alone, without requiring additional numerical labels or complex visual encodings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new visual dimension (color intensity) to encode node weight information, which was not present in traditional tree diagrams. This dimensional addition allows weight information to be conveyed alongside the hierarchical structure without increasing spatial complexity or requiring additional display space.
2Loss of information
If multiple levels of objectives are displayed in a tree diagram, then comprehensive hierarchical information is provided, but it is not possible to display all objectives on a single screen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple levels of hierarchical data into a single circular visualization where all levels are simultaneously visible. The circular layout allows parent and child nodes to be positioned in radial relationships, enabling comprehensive display of deep hierarchical structures without requiring vertical or horizontal scrolling. This consolidates information that would otherwise require multiple screens or zoom operations into one cohesive view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional vertical/tree-like layout to a radial/circular layout, utilizing angular positioning to represent hierarchical levels. This dimensional transformation allows multiple levels to be arranged around the circumference of a circle, with the center representing the root node and outer rings representing deeper levels, all visible simultaneously within a compact area.
3Productivity
If traditional tree diagrams are used for hierarchical data, then navigation is straightforward, but user interaction and data comprehension efficiency decrease with large datasets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color intensity to encode node weight, allowing users to immediately identify high-priority nodes without reading labels or performing mental comparisons. This visual encoding accelerates data comprehension by enabling rapid scanning and pattern recognition, as users can grasp the relative importance distribution across the entire hierarchy at a glance rather than systematically examining each node.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a circular/spheroidal layout instead of linear or grid-based arrangements. This curved radial structure naturally guides user eye movement around the circle and provides intuitive spatial relationships between parent and child nodes. The circular form factor also fits well on modern display devices and can be rotated or scaled without distortion, enhancing both aesthetics and interactability.
Data Source
AI summary
A graphical hierarchical data wheel for displaying hierarchical nodes includes a top level circle on a central axis of the wheel representing a top level node. The wheel further includes a first concentric ring adjacent to the top level circle and comprising a plurality of first level segments, each representing a first level node. The size of each first level segment is proportional to a weight of the corresponding first level node. The wheel further includes a second concentric ring having a larger radius than the first concentric ring and adjacent to the first concentric ring, and comprising a plurality of second level segments, each representing a second level node. The size of each of the second level segments is proportional to the weight of the corresponding second level node. The wheel may include additional concentric rings as needed, and depending on the resolution and size of the display.