Matrix-Based User Interface for Rapid Database Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing database user interfaces are inefficient for quickly retrieving and searching information, as they require multiple searches and lack visualization of data distribution, making it difficult for users to optimize their search process.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface displaying a matrix of icons representing database elements, with row and column headings for sources and subject matter, allowing users to navigate and search content efficiently by indicating the number of elements and visually marking relevant results, along with a system for compiling an executable file that processes content from various sources to facilitate rapid searching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a typical database user interface requires a user to enter a search string and display a list of elements containing the search string, then the user can retrieve information from the database, but the search process becomes time-consuming and the user may be forced to perform several searches before obtaining a small enough list of elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the traditional linear search interface into a two-dimensional matrix view where database elements are organized by subject matter (columns) and sources (rows). This dimensional change allows users to visually scan and locate information across multiple categories simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential searching and dramatically reducing search time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the database structure through the matrix interface, where each cell contains icons representing database elements. This visual copy allows users to perceive the distribution and organization of data without physically searching through the entire database, enabling rapid information retrieval.
2Loss of information
If a typical database user interface displays a list of elements containing the search string, then the user can view search results, but the user has no way of knowing how the elements are distributed within the database
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix interface adds visual dimensions to the database representation, organizing elements by subject matter columns and source rows. This dimensional organization visually reveals the distribution of data across different categories, allowing users to understand data structure and make informed decisions about where to search without increasing interface complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual attributes such as colored icons within matrix cells to indicate different properties of database elements, such as whether elements have been viewed, their relevance, or their status. These visual cues convey information about data distribution and element characteristics without requiring complex interface elements or additional text explanations.
3Productivity
If a user performs multiple searches to obtain a small enough list of elements to read, then the user can find relevant information, but the search process becomes inefficient and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix interface performs preliminary organization of database elements by subject matter and source before the user begins searching. This pre-arranged visual structure allows users to immediately see where information is located across different categories, eliminating the need for multiple iterative searches and significantly improving retrieval efficiency while reducing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The visual matrix provides a copy of the database's organizational structure that users can scan rapidly. This visual representation allows users to identify relevant information locations without physically accessing or searching through the actual database elements, thereby improving productivity while minimizing time consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A system that includes a graphical user interface that may be used to access information contained in a database is provided. The graphical user interface includes a matrix of icons that correspond to textual excerpts. A textual excerpt is displayed above the matrix and the displayed textual excerpt changes as a user moves a pointing device over the icons. The user may perform searches of character strings contained in the textual excerpts. The color of the icons that correspond to textual excerpts that satisfy the search request is different from the color of the remaining icons. The interface also allows the user to rapidly and efficiently perform searches to retrieve information from the database.