Spatial-Temporal Data Visualization via Tree Map and Distribution Curve
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tree maps are inadequate for visualizing spatial-temporal data, which includes both time-domain and region information, as they can only display data based on one dimension.
Innovation Solution
A data visualization method and apparatus that combines a distribution curve diagram and a tree map to represent time-based distribution and region information of spatial-temporal data, dividing irregular regions into sub-regions corresponding to preset areas to indicate the amount of data distributed in each region.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional tree map is used to display data, then the data distribution based on one dimension can be visually and directly displayed, but spatial-temporal data including both time-domain information and region information cannot be visualized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the conventional one-dimensional tree map into a two-dimensional visualization by introducing a time dimension. The irregular region in the visualization represents the time domain, while the tree map structure within it represents the spatial/region domain. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous display of both time-domain and region information without losing either aspect.
Solution Approach 2:
The visualization is segmented into distinct functional regions: the irregular region boundary represents time segmentation, while the tree map itself segments the spatial data into hierarchical categories. This segmentation allows independent representation of time-based distribution and region-based distribution, enabling comprehensive spatial-temporal visualization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional tree map is used to display data, then the structure is simple and easy to understand, but it cannot represent region changes over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two visualization techniques: the distribution curve diagram (representing time-based distribution) and the tree map (representing region-based distribution). By combining these two established visualization methods into a single integrated display, the system achieves the capability to show region changes over time while maintaining the simplicity and intuitive understanding of conventional tree maps.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a data visualization method and apparatus. The method includes: displaying a distribution curve diagram by using a display device, where the distribution curve diagram is used to represent time-based distribution of multiple pieces of spatial-temporal data, and the distribution curve diagram includes a timeline, a curve changing with the timeline, and an irregular region enclosed by the curve; and displaying a tree map in the irregular region by using the display device, where the tree map divides the irregular region into m sub-regions that are in a one-to-one correspondence with m regions, and an area of each of the m sub-regions is used to indicate an amount of spatial-temporal data distributed in a region corresponding to each sub-region. The present disclosure implements visualization of spatial-temporal data by using the tree map.