User-defined Graphical Hierarchies for Complex Diagram Relationships
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diagram applications struggle to represent complex relationships between data objects, such as EC2 instances and their served applications, by failing to display relationships between EC2 instances and the applications they serve, even when they are part of the same subnet.
Innovation Solution
Users can define user-defined groups and hierarchies in graphical diagrams, allowing for the grouping of graphical objects based on attributes and the rearrangement of these groups within the diagram to reflect intended relationships, using a computer-implemented method that includes receiving input to modify the hierarchy and rearranging graphical objects accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional diagram applications display graphical objects based on fixed hierarchical structures, then the diagram structure remains simple and easy to manage, but the ability to represent complex relationships between data objects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic hierarchy modification by allowing users to interactively rearrange graphical objects through drag-and-drop operations. The hierarchy structure changes in real-time based on user actions, transforming from a static to a dynamic system that adapts to represent complex relationships between data objects while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a user-defined grouping dimension to the traditional hierarchical structure. By allowing objects to be grouped based on attributes beyond their hierarchical position (such as grouping EC2 instances by application served), the system represents complex relationships without increasing hierarchical depth, effectively using an additional organizational dimension.
2Loss of information
If users cannot customize groupings in graphical diagrams, then the diagram structure remains simple, but the clarity and accuracy of data representation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables users to independently define custom groupings and hierarchies based on their specific data representation needs. Users can select attributes for grouping, drag objects into desired groups, and customize the diagram structure themselves, eliminating the need for pre-configured groupings and allowing each user to optimize the representation for their particular use case.
Data Source
AI summary
In an example, a computer-implemented method to modify a displayed hierarchy of a graphical diagram includes displaying, on a display device, a graphical diagram with multiple graphical objects. The method includes receiving input effective to modify a hierarchy of the graphical diagram, the hierarchy including two or more hierarchical levels. The method includes rearranging the graphical diagram according to the modified hierarchy, including rearranging at least some of the plurality of graphical objects according to the modified hierarchy.