Grid-Based Node Rendering with Lane Overlap
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical modeling applications face challenges in rendering large, complex models with orthogonal connections, often resulting in excessive whitespace, overlapping connections, and difficulty in user selection due to inadequate spacing between connections.
Innovation Solution
A grid-based rendering approach using orthogonal connections that partially overlap, combined with stepwise refinement selection methods, ensures predictable and scalable model layout and selection, maintaining a threshold amount of space for selectable areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If orthogonal connections are used to render relationships between nodes, then the model layout becomes more structured and predictable, but connections may overlap when multiple relationships exist between the same nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The connection rendering is segmented into multiple layers or tracks. When connections overlap, they are distributed across different segments (tracks) rather than being forced into a single plane, eliminating visual overlap while maintaining the orthogonal structured layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a two-dimensional plane to a multi-dimensional space by introducing additional tracks or layers. Connections that would overlap in 2D are separated along a third dimension (track index), allowing orthogonal connections to maintain their structured layout without harmful overlaps.
2Measurement precision
If connections are rendered with adequate spacing to prevent overlap, then selection accuracy improves, but excessive whitespace is introduced in the model layout
Solution Approach 1:
By introducing multiple tracks as an additional dimension, the system achieves both dense packing (minimizing whitespace) and clear separation (maintaining selection accuracy). Connections are packed efficiently in the 2D plane while using the track dimension to ensure selectable separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-track system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents connection overlap, maintains selection accuracy, and minimizes whitespace. Each track acts as a universal container that can hold multiple connections without interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rendering methods are used without grid-based layout, then flexibility in connection routing is maintained, but layout becomes unpredictable and difficult to manage in large complex models
Solution Approach 1:
The model is segmented into a grid-based structure with defined nodes and connections. This segmentation provides predictable positioning and routing while maintaining flexibility within each grid cell. The structured grid makes large complex models manageable through systematic organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The grid-based rendering system serves multiple purposes: it provides predictable layout, enables flexible connection routing within constraints, simplifies selection operations, and facilitates management of large complex models. The universal grid structure adapts to various model sizes and complexities.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure involves systems, software, and computer implemented methods for a grid-based rendering of nodes and relationships between nodes. One example method includes identifying model information that identifies nodes and relationships between nodes. The identified nodes are rendered, in a grid layout in a graphical model. Each cell of the grid includes at most one node, and the cells are separated by lane areas in which connections can be rendered. Connections between the nodes are rendered in the lane areas. The connections correspond to the relationships between the related nodes. One or more portions of the connections are overlapped when two or more connections are drawn in a same lane area. The connections, the nodes, the lane areas are selectable. A user selection of a selectable item is received. In response to the user selection, the connections and nodes that are associated with the selectable item are highlighted.