Dual Layer Browser Separating Hierarchy From Display Logic
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing browser systems are cumbersome to maintain due to hard-coded node information, making it difficult to handle changes in node structure when new objects are added, complicating the maintenance process.
Innovation Solution
A dual layer browser system where a browser provider receives data change notifications and updates the browser by providing necessary information, allowing the browser to focus on minimal system knowledge while the provider handles hierarchy and interface details, enabling efficient updates of node hierarchies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the browser is hard-coded with node information and handling logic, then the browser can display and navigate nodes correctly, but any changes in node structure require revisions in the browser code, making maintenance complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two independent layers: the browser layer (presentation) and the data layer (node information and structure). The browser contains only minimal system knowledge about basic tree structure, while the data layer holds all specific hierarchy information including parent/child/sibling relationships. This segmentation allows the browser to remain simple and stable while the data layer can be modified to support new objects without revising browser code.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the browser contains all node information and hierarchy details, then it can handle any node structure, but the browser becomes difficult to maintain when new objects are added
Solution Approach 1:
Specific hierarchy information and node details are extracted from the browser and placed into the data layer. The browser retains only the essential functionality for displaying and navigating tree structures, while all object-specific information (parent/child/sibling relationships, node properties) resides in the data layer. This extraction enables the browser to remain maintainable while the system adapts to new objects through data layer modifications.
3Reliability
If the browser is updated with every change in node structure, then the display remains accurate, but the update process becomes frequent and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The data layer is prepared in advance with complete hierarchy information and node relationships. When new objects are added or node structures change, only the data layer needs to be updated with the new information. The browser, containing only generic tree structure knowledge, can automatically adapt to these changes without requiring code revisions, thus eliminating the need for frequent browser updates and reducing maintenance time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are provided for updating a dual layer browser which displays a hierarchy of nodes. The method or system provides a first layer or “browser provider” which receives various changed data notifications, determines which changed data notifications affect the current browser display, and sends the required notifications to a second layer or “browser.” The browser then makes the necessary adjustments to the current display.