Matrix Visualization for Energy Management Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems for displaying energy management information in a tree structure struggle to distinguish nodes clearly, especially as trees grow larger, and fail to effectively associate data elements with locations and tangible resources, making it difficult for non-technical users to read and manage data from multiple locations.

Innovation Solution

A resource management system utilizing a matrix visualization component that categorizes data elements by tangible resources and locations, displaying them in a matrix format with dimensions representing resources and locations, allowing for easy association and visualization of data elements across multiple locations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If data elements are displayed in a tree structure with nodes for each element, monitored device, and location, then comprehensive data coverage is achieved, but node distinguishability deteriorates as the tree grows larger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata coverageVSAvoidnode distinguishability
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the flat list of data elements into hierarchical groups organized by location and monitored device. This segmentation creates a structured view where data elements are nested within location groups, which are further nested within monitored device groups, making it easier to distinguish and navigate large quantities of data without overwhelming the user interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces additional organizational dimensions (location and monitored device) to the data presentation structure. Instead of a single-dimensional flat list, the data is organized across multiple dimensions creating a hierarchical matrix that enables better visual distinction and navigation of data elements through structured grouping and indentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Ease of operation

If data elements are organized by tag-based approach associated with specific locations, then location-specific data management is improved, but versatility deteriorates when data is received from multiple different locations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelocation-specific data managementVSAvoidmulti-location data handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal data organization structure that can handle data from multiple locations and monitored devices through a consistent hierarchical framework. The same location-device-element hierarchy applies regardless of the number or type of locations, providing both location-specific management capabilities and multi-location versatility through a single unified system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a dynamic data organization system where the hierarchical structure automatically adapts to accommodate data from any number of locations and monitored devices. The system dynamically creates and organizes location groups and device groups based on the incoming data, allowing the structure to flexibly expand and contract while maintaining consistent organization principles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Loss of information

If every data element and location is displayed in a long unformatted list, then complete data visibility is achieved, but readability and usability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata visibilityVSAvoidreadability and usability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the long unformatted list into organized hierarchical groups by location and monitored device. This segmentation maintains complete data visibility by including all data elements while improving readability through structured grouping, indentation, and hierarchical nesting that creates visual separation and logical organization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transforms the one-dimensional flat list into a multi-dimensional hierarchical structure with multiple levels of organization. This dimensional change adds location and device context dimensions to the data presentation, enabling complete data visibility while dramatically improving readability and usability through structured grouping and visual hierarchy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10528598B2Energy management system and method
Publication Date: 2020.01.07 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC USA INC
  • US10528598B2 patent drawing
  • US10528598B2 patent drawing
  • US10528598B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for remotely managing tangible resources. In one embodiment, a method may employ a computer-based system to receive resource information, categorize the resource information, and provide the categorized resource information within a matrix.