Network Status Data Visualization Using Tree Maps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Managing and monitoring large computer systems with hundreds or thousands of elements is challenging due to the difficulty in understanding system operation, leading to outdated or overloaded systems that fail to meet requirements.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a status data processor that gathers and preprocesses status data, applies modification data to generate tree map visualizations, and includes a forecast module to analyze trends, enabling effective capacity planning and disaster recovery simulations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If traditional monitoring methods are used for large computer systems, then system operation can be tracked, but system managers cannot understand how the system is operating effectively

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem operation understandingVSAvoidsystem size
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the large computer system into hierarchical groups and subgroups, organizing hundreds or thousands of system elements into manageable clusters. This segmentation allows managers to view the system at multiple levels of detail, understanding overall operation without being overwhelmed by individual element complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a visual dimension through graphical displays that represent system elements, groups, and subgroups spatially. This dimensional transformation converts complex tabular data into intuitive visual patterns, enabling managers to grasp system operation at a glance rather than through tedious data analysis.

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

2Ease of operation

If no visualization system is implemented, then system management is difficult, but implementing traditional monitoring provides data without actionable insights

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem management easeVSAvoidsystem operation understanding
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs color-coded visual indicators to represent different system states, performance levels, and operational conditions. This color-coding system transforms abstract numerical data into immediately recognizable visual patterns, enabling managers to quickly assess system health and identify areas requiring attention without complex analysis.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent adds a visual representation layer that maps hierarchical system data onto a two-dimensional graphical interface. This dimensional transformation preserves all underlying data while presenting it in an intuitively understandable format, bridging the gap between raw monitoring data and actionable management insights.

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

3Measurement precision

If detailed monitoring of all system elements is performed, then complete status data is available, but the data becomes overwhelming and unusable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatus data accuracyVSAvoiddata usability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent organizes detailed status data into hierarchical groups and subgroups, maintaining complete monitoring precision while structuring the information into manageable segments. This hierarchical segmentation allows managers to access detailed data when needed while presenting summarized views for routine monitoring, preserving accuracy without overwhelming the user.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a multi-level viewing system where managers can access partial summaries for routine monitoring and drill down to complete detailed data when necessary. This partial action approach presents only the necessary level of detail at each viewing level, making the data usable while preserving complete measurement precision for when it is truly needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS9734034B2System and method for processing data
Publication Date: 2017.08.15 HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE DEV LP
  • US9734034B2 patent drawing
  • US9734034B2 patent drawing
  • US9734034B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to one embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of processing status data relating to elements of a network. The method comprises receiving status data relating to elements of the network, obtaining status data modification data, modifying at least some of the received status data in accordance with the status data modification data, and generating tree map data using the modified data.