Preference Stack Interface for Data Filtering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face challenges in efficiently searching and filtering large, complex data sets, such as GIS databases, due to the lack of clear and concise methods for data retrieval and visualization.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface called the preference stack is introduced, which allows users to customize data displays by generating representations of items based on criteria, emphasizing items that meet higher-weighted criteria through visual means such as opacity, size, and position in the interface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional search methods are used to retrieve data from large databases, then data retrieval is performed, but the process is time-consuming and difficult for users to efficiently find relevant information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data retrieval process into multiple independent criteria dimensions (e.g., location, price, amenities for real estate). Each criterion can be independently adjusted and weighted, allowing users to break down complex search requirements into manageable segments rather than using a single monolithic search query.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes display parameters based on criterion weights. When users assign different weights to criteria, the system automatically adjusts visual parameters (opacity, size, position) of data representations to reflect priority, enabling rapid exploration of different search perspectives without time-consuming re-queries.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple search criteria are applied to filter data, then data filtering capability is improved, but the interface complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a visual dimension to traditional text-based filtering. Instead of only using checkbox interfaces or dropdown menus, the system represents criteria as visual elements (e.g., stacked bars, colored overlays) where users can intuitively understand and adjust multiple filtering dimensions simultaneously through visual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses color and visual properties to represent different criteria and their weights. Data representations change color, opacity, or size based on which criteria they satisfy and the importance assigned to those criteria, making complex filtering results intuitively understandable at a glance.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for customizing the display of a set of data using a preference stack interface. The preference stack interface allows a user to interact with an ordered list of criterion objects. Each criterion object corresponds to an attribute of the data set to be presented to the user. In response to a change in the order of the criterion objects in the preference stack, a rendering of the dataset can be updated to differently and visually emphasize items according to which criterion objects each item meets.