Spreadsheet Loop Functions for Ordered Analytical Output

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing spreadsheet applications lack the capability to perform repetitive calculations efficiently, as users must either manually perform multiple steps or use complex Pivot Tables and embedded programming, which are beyond the skill level of most users.

Innovation Solution

A family of predefined formula functions allows users to create programming loop equivalents in spreadsheet cells, enabling data filtering, output ordering, and selection, supporting single and multivariable compound or nested loops, and allowing customization of displayed calculations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If users manually perform repetitive calculations in spreadsheet applications, then calculation accuracy can be maintained, but user time and effort are significantly consumed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalculation accuracyVSAvoiduser time and effort

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements loop constructs that automatically copy and execute calculation operations multiple times across different data sets. The loop structure allows a single calculation formula to be replicated and executed iteratively, eliminating manual repetitive operations while maintaining consistent calculation accuracy across all iterations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The spreadsheet system performs automatic recalibration and recalculation operations without user intervention. The loop-based analytical functions automatically execute repetitive calculations, filter results, and reorder outputs based on calculated values, enabling the system to serve itself in performing tasks that would otherwise require manual user effort.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If users employ Pivot Tables for repetitive calculations, then calculation efficiency is improved, but the complexity of operation increases due to specialized knowledge requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecalculation efficiencyVSAvoidoperation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the functionality of standard spreadsheet functions to include loop-based repetitive calculations, filtering, and reordering capabilities within a single unified function structure. This allows users to perform multiple operations that previously required separate tools like Pivot Tables, maintaining simplicity while achieving enhanced productivity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent combines loop execution, data filtering, and result reordering operations into a single integrated analytical function. By merging these previously separate operations into one cohesive function, the system maintains ease of operation while achieving the productivity benefits of complex repetitive calculations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If Pivot Tables are used for data analysis, then repetitive calculation capability is provided, but output ordering and ranking flexibility is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improverepetitive calculation capabilityVSAvoidoutput ordering flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic reordering of loop output based on calculated values. The system automatically reorders results according to their calculated magnitudes, allowing flexible ranking and sorting without requiring complex manual configuration. This dynamic adaptation enables versatile output presentation while maintaining functional simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Extent of automation

If embedded programming language is used to solve repetitive calculation problems, then automation capability is achieved, but the difficulty of operation increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation capabilityVSAvoidprogramming difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex embedded programming with simplified, pre-defined loop analytical functions that can be deployed without deep programming knowledge. These functions provide automation capability through a user-friendly interface, eliminating the need for users to write and maintain complex programming code while achieving the same automated results.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS20260030441A1Method and system for improved ordering of output from spreadsheet analytical functions

Publication Date: 2026.01.29 ADAPTAM INC

AI summary

The disclosed technology creates a family of (predefined formula) spreadsheet functions which allows users to create programming loop equivalents in their regular spreadsheet cells employing familiar range functions (e.g., SUM, COUNT, MIN, MAX, etc.) with data filtering and output selection. The data can be sourced from multiple cells within the spreadsheet or a broad spectrum of numeric, date and text data not stored in a spreadsheet, including data not discretely defined. The technology disclosed can use as inputs either cell ranges or Non-Spreadsheet Cell (NSC) data formulas. The capability allows users to specify standardized or highly custom calculations capable of executing millions of loops through a (predefined formula) spreadsheet function.