Graph Label Positioning via Field Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Visual representations of graph data structures often become crowded and difficult to read due to the proximity of graphical elements and text labels, leading to a tension between the amount of textual information and the positioning of icons, resulting in less informative graphical visualizations.
Innovation Solution
A process that automatically positions text labels relative to icons in a graphical representation by segmenting the field of view into quadrants and placing labels accordingly, ensuring they are spread apart and easier to read, particularly in central regions of the graph, using a combination of force-directed layouts and segmentation techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If text labels are placed near icons in graph visualizations, then textual information is provided, but the visualization becomes crowded and difficult to read
Solution Approach 1:
The field of view is segmented into multiple regions (e.g., quadrants or zones), and text labels are assigned to specific segments based on their associated icon's location. This segmentation allows labels to be distributed across different regions rather than clustered together, reducing visual crowding while maintaining information density.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional label placement (directly adjacent to icons) to two-dimensional spatial distribution across the field of view. By considering the global position of icons within the field of view and assigning labels to different spatial segments, the system effectively uses the two-dimensional display space to separate labels that would otherwise overlap in proximity to their icons.
2Loss of information
If more text labels are added to provide comprehensive information, then the amount of textual information increases, but the graphical elements and text labels become more crowded
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the field of view into multiple segments and distributing labels across these segments, the patent reduces visual complexity while maintaining comprehensive textual information. Labels that would otherwise compete for the same visual space are separated into different segments, making the overall visualization less complex despite containing rich information.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the field of view are assigned different functional qualities - some regions serve as primary label zones while others serve as icon placement zones. This local differentiation allows the system to accommodate both comprehensive labeling and visual clarity by optimizing the use of different spatial regions for different purposes.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a process, including: obtaining a graph to be visually represented in a graphical user interface of a client computing device; obtaining a set of text labels each corresponding to a respective collection of the nodes; determining a two dimensional or higher layout of the icons in the visual representation; segmenting the field of view into a plurality of segments; determining which icons are disposed within each of the segments of the field of view; determining positions of the text labels in the visual representation relative to one or more icons representing nodes in the respective collection of nodes based on the segment of the field of view in which the one or more icons representing nodes in the respective collection are disposed; and causing the visual representation to be displayed.