Dynamic Time Scale Manipulation for Data Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical user interfaces for time-dependent information are static, limiting the ability to effectively view both long-term trends and short-term events, as time scales are fixed and do not allow for dynamic manipulation.
Innovation Solution
A method that enables users to change the time scale through direct manipulation using graphical drill-up and drill-down controls, allowing for the display of time-dependent information in contracted or expanded form across various time units, such as years, quarters, months, weeks, and days, facilitating navigation between different scales.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the time scale is fixed to show long-term trends, then long-term trends are visible, but short-term events are hidden
Solution Approach 1:
The time scale is transformed from a static fixed value to a dynamic adjustable parameter. Users can interact with the interface to change the time scale between long-term and short-term views, allowing the system to adapt to different viewing needs without losing either long-term trends or short-term events.
Solution Approach 2:
The time scale is divided into multiple discrete levels (e.g., long-term, medium-term, short-term). Each level represents a different granularity of time units, allowing users to select appropriate granularity based on their analytical needs. This segmentation enables switching between different levels of detail without overwhelming the user.
2Loss of information
If the time scale is fixed to show short-term events, then short-term events are visible, but long-term trends are hidden
Solution Approach 1:
The time scale transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one that users can adjust on demand. The interface provides controls that allow easy switching between different time scale levels, making long-term trend analysis accessible without requiring complex manual adjustments or multiple separate views.
Solution Approach 2:
The time scale mechanism serves multiple functions: it can display long-term trends, short-term events, and any intermediate granularity. A single unified interface handles all these viewing requirements, eliminating the need for separate specialized views or complex configuration procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the time scale is made adjustable, then both long-term trends and short-term events can be viewed, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable time scale is segmented into a limited number of discrete, pre-defined levels rather than allowing continuous adjustment. This segmentation provides flexibility for different viewing needs while keeping the interface simple by limiting the number of controls and options the user must navigate.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface provides dynamic controls that allow users to adjust the time scale interactively. The controls are designed to be intuitive and responsive, allowing users to switch between time scale levels easily without requiring complex configurations, thereby achieving high adaptability with minimal interface complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of presenting time-dependent information displays a first time scale that includes at least one first time unit and a plurality of second time units, which are subunits of the first time unit. The method displays time-dependent information according to the first time scale. A graphical drill-up control is provided for the first time unit. A graphical drill-down control is provided for each of the second time units. Actuation of the drill-up control displays a new time scale that includes at least one third time unit, of which the first time unit is a subunit, and a plurality of first time units. The method then displays the time-dependent information according to the new time scale. Actuation of the drill-down control displays a second new time scale that includes a plurality of third time units, each of which is a subunit of the second time unit. The method then displays the time-dependent information according to the second new time scale.