Segmentation Model GUI for Iterative Data Subset Filtering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional data filtering techniques face challenges in extracting a desired subset from large datasets, as filtering by too many parameters results in a subset that is too small, while filtering by too few parameters yields a subset that is too large, lacking visibility in the process.

Innovation Solution

A graphical user interface (GUI) with a segmentation model that allows users to visually filter data by selecting attributes and filter options, displaying intermediate results and enabling iterative refinement to obtain a target subset, with flow indicators showing relationships between attributes and the data set.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If data is filtered by many parameters, then the precision of data selection is improved, but the size of the resulting data subset becomes too small to be useful

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of data selectionVSAvoidsize of data subset
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the filtering process into multiple stages with intermediate results. Users can apply filters incrementally and review intermediate subsets, allowing them to adjust the number and combination of parameters to achieve both precision and sufficient data quantity. The system divides the large dataset into manageable segments that can be explored iteratively.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent allows users to apply partial filtering actions and review intermediate results before committing to a complete filter set. Users can start with fewer parameters, see the resulting subset size, and gradually add more parameters as needed, rather than being forced to choose between too few or too many parameters from the start.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

2Quantity of substance

If data is filtered by few parameters, then the size of the data subset remains large enough to be useful, but the precision of data selection deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesize of data subsetVSAvoidprecision of data selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic filtering interface where users can interactively adjust parameters, add or remove filter criteria, and immediately see updated intermediate results. This dynamic approach allows users to optimize the balance between subset size and selection precision based on their specific needs, rather than being locked into a static filter configuration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides immediate feedback through intermediate results that show users the effect of each filtering action on data subset size and characteristics. This feedback loop enables users to make informed decisions about whether to add more parameters for precision or keep the current parameter set to maintain sufficient data quantity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If conventional filtering techniques are used without visibility into the filtering process, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering system complexityVSAvoidease of data filtering
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the user and the complex filtering operations. The system automatically manages the computational complexity of applying multiple filters and combining parameters, while presenting users with a simplified interface that shows intermediate results and allows intuitive adjustments without requiring users to understand the underlying complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS7974992B2Segmentation model user interface
Publication Date: 2011.07.05 SAP SE
  • US7974992B2 patent drawing
  • US7974992B2 patent drawing
  • US7974992B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A data warehouse may include a data set of items associated with a plurality of attributes. An input handler may be configured to receive selections of attributes and filter options and a placement of an attribute icon representing each selection within a segmentation model displayed within a results portion of a graphical user interface (GUI). A view generator may be configured to provide the segmentation model in the results portion, the model including a data set icon representing the items, provide an attribute list in a segmentation portion of the GUI including a list of the attributes, provide the attribute icon within the segmentation model based on the placement, and provide a flow indicator corresponding to the filter option associated with each attribute icon. A filter may be configured to obtain a subset of the plurality of items corresponding to each selection based on the placement and filter option.