Graphical Links for Disjoint Model Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional graphical modeling environments require users to manually navigate and manage multiple disjoint models, which can be cumbersome, especially in collaborative projects where models are distributed across different computers or platforms, necessitating knowledge of model names and locations for access.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for navigating between models in a graphical modeling environment by providing graphical links within models to associate and access related or disjoint models, allowing users to easily switch between them, with features like graphical user interfaces for creating associations and generating links, and a distribution server for client-device model access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually navigate and manage multiple disjoint models, then model access is possible, but user efficiency decreases and operation becomes cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces graphical links as intermediary elements that mediate between the user and the actual model files. These links serve as a navigation layer that abstracts away the complexity of model locations and names, allowing users to traverse between models through intuitive graphical interfaces rather than manual file management
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates graphical representations (copies) of model access points within the modeling environment. Instead of requiring users to navigate to actual model files stored elsewhere, the system creates local graphical link copies that represent and provide access to remote models, enabling quick navigation without physical file access
2Adaptability or versatility
If models are distributed across different computers or platforms, then collaboration is enabled, but knowledge of model names and locations becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The graphical link mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as a navigation tool, a reference manager, and a collaborative connector simultaneously. A single graphical link can reference models across different platforms and computers while providing a unified access interface, eliminating the need for platform-specific or location-specific access procedures
Solution Approach 2:
Graphical links serve as universal intermediaries that bridge different computers and platforms. Rather than requiring direct knowledge of remote system details, the graphical link mediates access by translating local user actions into remote model operations across diverse computing environments
3Ease of operation
If graphical links are provided between models, then navigation between models is simplified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex model management system into distinct components: graphical links as navigation elements, link targets as model references, and association mechanisms as connection managers. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific aspects of model navigation independently, reducing overall system complexity despite added functionality
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed methods, mechanisms, and system provide the ability to associate one or more disjointed models such that a second model can be accessed from a first model thereby allowing easier navigation between models. A graphical link to a second model is provided as part of a first model. Activating the graphical link opens the second model for viewing or editing. Links between additional models may also be provided. Thus, by using the provided graphical links, a user may quickly and easily navigate between all the associated models.