Graphical Query Interface for Visual Record Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for modifying database query results are cumbersome, often requiring context menus or separate dialogs, and fail to provide a clear understanding of record relationships, especially when making multiple changes or performing batch updates.
Innovation Solution
A graphical representation system that allows users to visually modify query result records by transitioning them between vertices in a field graph, using drag-and-drop operations or highlighting arcs, while maintaining a consistent view and enabling changes across different field types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional methods (context menus or separate dialogs) are used to modify query results, then data modification capability is provided, but operation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the data visualization function and data modification function into a single integrated graphical interface. Users can modify query result records directly on the graphical display by dragging records between vertices, eliminating the need for separate context menus or dialog boxes. This integration directly reduces operation steps and time consumption while maintaining full modification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical representation enables self-service modification where the interface itself provides the modification capability directly at the point of data display. The drag-and-drop mechanism allows users to modify records without leaving the current view or invoking additional tools, making the system self-sufficient for common modification tasks.
2Loss of information
If conventional table or grid views are used, then data display is provided, but understanding of record relationships becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional two-dimensional table views to a graphical representation that adds visual dimensionality through vertices, arcs, and spatial relationships. Records are displayed as visual elements positioned according to their field values, with arcs connecting related records. This dimensional transformation makes relationships between records immediately visible while maintaining data completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical representation uses visual attributes such as color, shape, and positioning to encode relationship information. Different visual styles indicate different types of relationships or field value categories, allowing users to quickly comprehend complex data relationships without increasing interface complexity.
3Loss of information
If graphical representations are used to display query results, then visual understanding of relationships is improved, but ability to modify records becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines data visualization and data modification capabilities within the same graphical interface. The drag-and-drop mechanism allows users to modify record field values by moving records between vertices representing different field values, fully integrating modification functionality into the visual representation without limiting versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical representation serves multiple functions simultaneously: it visualizes data relationships, allows record modification through drag-and-drop, supports batch updates, and maintains query result context. This multi-functionality ensures that the system adapts to various user needs while maintaining a consistent interface paradigm.
4Productivity
If multiple records are modified using conventional methods, then batch updates are possible, but operation steps and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple record modification operations into a single drag-and-drop action. Users can select multiple records and drag them simultaneously to a target vertex, performing batch updates in one operation rather than through multiple context menu selections or dialog interactions. This dramatically increases productivity while simplifying the batch update process.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are systems and methods for changing query result data graphically displayed on an electronic device. A query of a data repository is performed. A graphical representation of a set of query results identified from the query is displayed. The query results include a plurality of query result records. The graphical representation includes a first node corresponding to a first record field value and a second node corresponding to a second record field value. A region proximal to the first node displays a query result record having the first record field value. A query result record having the first record field value is selected. A field value of a selected query result record is changed from the first record field value to the second record field value by transitioning the selected query result record to a region proximal to the second node.