Dynamic Table Formatting for Small Screens
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for displaying large data tables on small computing devices, such as tablets or mobile phones, require horizontal and vertical scrolling or column hiding, leading to data loss and impaired comparison of records.
Innovation Solution
A table formatting method that moves column labels and data values into areas between data records based on screen size and priority values, allowing for unidirectional scrolling and optimizing display on devices with small screens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the table is displayed on a small screen device using conventional methods, then the table can be viewed, but horizontal and vertical scrolling is required which impedes quick comparison of data records
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the table columns into different display areas based on priority values. High-priority columns are displayed in the main table area while lower-priority columns are moved to expandable side areas. This segmentation allows the main table to remain compact for quick scanning while still providing access to all data through organized segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the traditional two-dimensional table layout by introducing a third dimension through expandable side areas. Instead of requiring horizontal scrolling across multiple columns, the patent uses vertical expansion in side areas to display additional columns, converting horizontal navigation into vertical navigation which is more suitable for small screens.
2Area of stationary object
If data columns are hidden to fit the table on a small screen, then the table can be displayed, but data is lost and comparison ability is impeded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the main table contains high-priority columns, and expandable side areas contain lower-priority columns. When side areas are expanded, they nest additional columns without disrupting the main table layout. This nested arrangement ensures all data remains accessible while maintaining a compact main view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the table layout dynamic by allowing users to expand and collapse side areas based on their viewing needs. The table adapts its width and content display dynamically rather than being fixed, enabling users to see more data when needed while maintaining a compact form when scanning quickly.
3Ease of operation
If the table width is reduced to fit small screens, then unidirectional scrolling is enabled, but the table must move column labels and data values which complicates the formatting process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-assigning priority values to columns and pre-determining their display locations before the user views the table. This pre-organization allows the system to automatically generate the formatted layout without complex real-time calculations, simplifying the formatting process while achieving the desired unidirectional scrolling capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter disclosed herein provides methods for formatting a table for display on a computing device. A table having one or more rows and one or more columns may be accessed. The rows may correspond to one or more data records. The data records may have one or more data values distributed across the columns. The columns may be associated with one or more column labels and one or more priority values. A size of a display screen on a computing device may be determined. A table may be formatted by moving a column label and a data value in at least one column into an area between successive data records. The formatting may be based on the display screen size and an associated column priority value. The formatted table may be caused to be displayed on the computing device. Related apparatus, systems, techniques, and articles are also described.