Matrix Table for Laboratory Component Attributes

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Solution Overview

Problem

In high-throughput laboratory and process areas, existing table formats for presenting measurement results become unclear due to the multiplicity of samples and measurement methods, often requiring numerous columns with potential empty cells and subtables, leading to space inefficiency and complexity.

Innovation Solution

A method for creating a space-saving table with a matrix of columns and rows, where each row represents a component and each column represents an attribute, with a set of values for all components assigned to a single column, reducing redundancy and using tiles with headers/footers for additional information, and allowing hidden values to be displayed upon selection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a separate column is created for each measurement method, then all measurement results can be presented, but the table becomes too unclear and space-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of measurement resultsVSAvoidtable complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple measurement method columns into a single column by implementing a hierarchical structure where a parent column represents the measurement method and child columns represent individual measurements. This consolidation reduces the number of top-level columns while preserving all measurement data through the nested subtable structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the table into hierarchical levels: a main table with consolidated measurement method columns, and expandable subtables for individual measurements. This segmentation allows the interface to display only essential information at the top level while providing detailed measurement data on demand through collapsible/expandable subtables.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Area of stationary object

If subtables are used to display measurement results, then space can be saved, but the table becomes less clear due to hidden information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetable spaceVSAvoidvisibility of measurement results
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic subtables that can be expanded or collapsed based on user interaction. When a measurement method column is selected, the corresponding subtable expands to display detailed measurement results; otherwise, the subtable remains collapsed to save space. This dynamic behavior allows the table to adapt between compact and detailed views.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent provides visual feedback through indicators that show which measurement methods have associated subtables and how many measurements are contained within each. This feedback mechanism informs users about the availability of additional information without requiring constant expansion of subtables, maintaining clarity while preserving access to complete data.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Loss of information

If numerous columns are created to accommodate all measurement methods, then all data can be displayed, but computing power and storage requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompleteness of dataVSAvoidcomputing power and storage
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple measurement method columns into a single consolidated column structure, reducing the total number of columns in the main table. This merging decreases the computational overhead for rendering and managing the table structure while maintaining access to all measurement data through the hierarchical organization and expandable subtables.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20240143908A1Method for creating a table for processing attributes of components from a laboratory and/or process area
Publication Date: 2024.05.02 ANALYTIK JENA GMBHCO KG
  • US20240143908A1 patent drawing
  • US20240143908A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A table for processing component attributes is provided. The table consists of cells, which form a matrix of columns and rows is provided. Each row is assigned to one component and contains information relating to the component. Each column is assigned to an attribute and contains attribute information. A first attribute is assigned to a first column, where the first attribute comprises a set of values, where the set includes all values of the first attribute for all components, where the method includes inserting a first value from the set of the first attribute into a first cell of a first row and column, and where the first value relates to the component assigned to the first row. The method also includes inserting a second value from the set of the first attribute into the first cell, where the second value relates to the component assigned to the first row.