Spreadsheet Data Object Access via Cell Reference Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Raw financial data is cumbersome and error-prone to input and analyze in spreadsheet applications, especially due to its large size and complex dependencies, making it difficult to visualize and perform accurate analyses.
Innovation Solution
A method that allows accessing and analyzing data objects within a spreadsheet by associating them with cells, enabling users to input and evaluate expressions that reference these objects, thereby simplifying complex financial data operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If raw financial data is input directly into a spreadsheet, then the data can be stored and organized, but the process becomes cumbersome and error-prone due to large size and complex dependencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between raw financial data and spreadsheet storage. Instead of directly inputting raw data into spreadsheet cells, the system uses a data access layer with object models that mediate the interaction. This intermediary layer handles the complexity of data relationships and dependencies, allowing users to work with simplified representations while the underlying complex data structure remains managed by the system.
2Productivity
If complex financial expressions reference multiple cells, then comprehensive analysis can be performed, but locating errors becomes extremely difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that provide users with information about data relationships and dependencies. The system tracks and communicates how cells are connected through expressions, allowing users to understand the impact of changes and easily locate sources of errors. This feedback loop enables comprehensive analysis while reducing the time needed to identify and correct errors through better visibility into data relationships.
3Adaptability or versatility
If financial data is organized in row/column format, then it can be processed by spreadsheet applications, but some data types cannot be visualized easily and do not fit well
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the traditional two-dimensional row/column spreadsheet model by introducing additional dimensions through object-oriented data structures. Instead of forcing all data into flat rows and columns, the system allows data to be organized in hierarchical and relational structures that can then be accessed and visualized in multiple dimensions. This enables complex financial data to maintain its inherent structure while still being accessible through spreadsheet interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a method for providing access to a data object from within a spreadsheet included in a spreadsheet application. The method includes associating the data object with a first cell of the spreadsheet, wherein the data object is related to a parameter, and the first cell is identified by a cell reference, receiving an input that is related to a second cell of the spreadsheet and includes an expression that specifies the parameter and the first cell reference, and replacing the first cell reference specified by the expression with the data object, wherein a value for the second cell may be determined by applying the parameter to the data object specified in the expression.