Graphical Family Trees with Phantom Parent Nodes for Missing Records

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional graphical tree generation algorithms fail to correctly position interior nodes and address design requirements such as child nodes with multiple parents or related families, leading to irregularities and inefficiencies in visually representing hierarchical records.

Innovation Solution

A method and system for generating graphical trees that include nodes with multiple parents and affiliated records, using a phantom parent node to align levels and visually distinguish missing records through unique cues, ensuring even spacing and aesthetic alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If conventional node-positioning algorithms are used to generate graphical trees, then the generation process is automated, but the positioning accuracy and aesthetic quality deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of graphical tree generationVSAvoidpositioning accuracy of interior nodes

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system compares expected node positions (based on hierarchical relationships) against actual node positions, identifies discrepancies, and automatically adjusts positioning to correct errors. This feedback loop enables automated generation while maintaining positioning precision by continuously verifying and correcting node placements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces conventional mechanical positioning algorithms with a relationship-based positioning system that uses hierarchical data structures and logical rules to determine node positions. This substitution allows for more accurate positioning by relying on semantic relationships rather than purely geometric calculations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of manufacture

If conventional tree-generating algorithms are used, then the generation process is simple, but the ability to handle complex design requirements deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of tree generation processVSAvoidability to handle multiple parents and affiliated families

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal graphical tree generation system that can handle multiple types of hierarchical relationships including single parents, multiple parents, and affiliated families. The system uses a unified data structure and algorithm that adapts to different relationship types, making it versatile while maintaining ease of use through consistent interaction patterns.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameters of the generation system by introducing configurable relationship types and flexibility in node connections. This allows the same basic algorithm to accommodate various design requirements (single parent, multiple parents, affiliated families) by adjusting parameters rather than requiring different algorithms for each case.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Quantity of substance

If the number of nodes in the graphical tree increases, then the representation becomes more comprehensive, but the complexity of satisfying positioning constraints increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenumber of nodes representedVSAvoidcomplexity of positioning constraints

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the positioning problem by handling nodes in hierarchical levels separately. The system positions nodes level-by-level, using the completed positioning of parent nodes to guide the positioning of child nodes. This segmentation reduces the overall complexity by breaking down the large positioning problem into smaller, manageable sub-problems that can be solved systematically.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20250328553A1Identifying Missing Nodes Within a Graphically Represented Family

Publication Date: 2025.10.23 KILPATRICK TOWNSEND & STOCKTON LLP

AI summary

Techniques may include receiving a user request identifying a first record among the plurality of hierarchical records. The techniques may include identifying a first group of hierarchical records using the first record. The techniques may include identifying a missing record among the first group of hierarchical records that does not appear as an entry among associated records of the first record. A graphical representation including the first record and the first group of hierarchical records can be generated, and the missing record can be represented using a visual cue to set the missing record apart from the other records in the graphical representation. Also, the techniques may include presenting the graphical representation. Further, the techniques may include updating the associated records of the first record to include the missing record and updating the graphical representation to remove the visual cue.