Automated Temporal Interval Selection for Chart Data Visualization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing charting mechanisms face challenges in determining an optimal temporal interval for displaying data, often resulting in either overcrowding or underrepresentation of data points, as users struggle to choose the right interval size based on the display area, leading to unsatisfactory chart outputs.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism automatically determines the optimal temporal interval by considering the size of the display area and the number of data points that can be displayed, iteratively testing candidate intervals to select the one that maximizes the number of data elements without exceeding the display capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed temporal interval is used for charting data, then the charting process is simple and consistent, but the number of data display elements may exceed the display area capacity or make individual data points indistinguishable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the temporal interval adjustable rather than fixed. The system dynamically determines the appropriate interval size based on the display area capacity and the total range of data to be visualized, allowing the charting mechanism to adapt the number of data points to fit within the display constraints while maintaining distinguishability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of temporal interval from a fixed value to a variable that is calculated based on display area dimensions and data range. This parameter adjustment allows the system to optimize the balance between having enough data points for meaningful visualization and keeping them within the display capacity limits.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the user is prompted to enter a temporal interval, then the user has control over the data granularity, but the user may choose incorrect intervals requiring multiple attempts to achieve satisfactory results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the system to automatically determine the appropriate temporal interval without requiring user input. The charting mechanism calculates the optimal interval based on the display area size and data range, eliminating the need for users to perform mental calculations or make multiple trial selections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-calculating the optimal temporal interval before the user needs to view the chart. The system determines the appropriate interval in advance based on the known display area constraints and data characteristics, so when the user requests the chart, the correct interval is already established.
3Loss of information
If many data points are displayed to provide sufficient information, then the chart provides comprehensive data coverage, but the data points become too dense for the display area and hard to distinguish
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of data point density by adjusting the temporal interval based on display area constraints. This ensures that the number of data points is optimized to provide sufficient information coverage while maintaining appropriate spacing for visual distinguishability within the available display area.
Data Source
AI summary
A mechanism for automatically determining an optimal temporal interval for displaying data is provided. The mechanism receives information indicating a temporal range. The mechanism determines the size of a display area in which data corresponding to the temporal range is to be displayed. The mechanism further determines, based at least partially upon the size of the display area, how many data display elements can be displayed within the first display area. The mechanism then determines, based at least partially upon the temporal range and how many data display elements can be displayed within the display area, a temporal interval by which the temporal range is to be divided for purposes of displaying the data corresponding to the temporal range. Each data display element corresponds to a particular instance of temporal interval.