Fisheye Node Link Layout for Hierarchical Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing node-link representation methods in computer graphical user interfaces face challenges in preserving the usability and clarity of hierarchical data when the display is altered, particularly in maintaining the visibility of parent-child relationships and contextual information during focus changes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented system and method that applies a one-dimensional positional transformation to node positions within a hierarchy, using a fisheye lens effect to warp node positions substantially in one direction, allowing for focused magnification while maintaining contextual relationships and reducing node concentration near the focal point.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a structured hierarchical layout is used to display nodes, then parent-child relationships are clearly illustrated, but the layout becomes difficult to comprehend when display focus changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic transformation to the hierarchical layout based on user focus. When a node is selected, the system dynamically warps the entire hierarchy using a fisheye lens effect, transforming the static structured layout into an adaptive dynamic layout that maintains relationships while improving usability during focus changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes spatial parameters of node positions through positional transformations. By applying warping functions that modify x and y coordinates based on distance from the focal node, the system transforms the layout parameters to create a fisheye view that preserves hierarchy while improving comprehensibility during focus changes.
2Shape
If nodes are displayed in a top-down or left-right manner, then hierarchical structure is clear, but contextual information and relationships become ambiguous when display is altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a transformation function as an intermediary between the original hierarchical layout and the displayed layout. This fisheye transformation acts as a mediator that converts the structured hierarchy into a warped layout, preserving contextual relationships while enabling focused viewing without losing hierarchical clarity.
3Ease of operation
If the display is altered to change focus on specific nodes, then user focus is improved, but parent-child relationships become less visible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the hierarchical display into a focal region and peripheral regions. Using the fisheye lens effect, the focal node and its immediate context are magnified and clearly visible, while distant nodes are progressively compressed. This segmentation allows users to focus on specific nodes without completely losing visibility of parent-child relationships throughout the hierarchy.
Data Source
AI summary
Computer-implemented methods and systems for displaying nodes on a display device, wherein the nodes have a hierarchical context. Positional information associated with a plurality of nodes is used to generate a display for the nodes. The generated node display maintains hierarchical contextual information about the nodes.