Tree Layout Algorithm Using Quadratic Curves for Dynamic Node Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tree layout methods are inflexible, as they require fixed locations and do not allow for dynamic addition or removal of nodes, and manual placement of nodes to maintain a tree structure, limiting their ability to represent non-constrained data effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method that generates a directed graph of genealogical data to maintain parent-child relationships, positions nodes with equal spacing along a horizontal axis, and uses quadratic curves to create a tree-like structure, allowing for automatic positioning and spacing of nodes to resemble a tree without user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed locations and manual placement methods are used, then the tree structure can be maintained, but the system becomes inflexible and cannot dynamically add or remove nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically positions nodes using algorithms that calculate optimal positions based on parent-child relationships and generation levels. The layout engine autonomously handles node placement, spacing, and tree structure maintenance without requiring manual user intervention, thereby enabling dynamic node addition/removal while maintaining tree integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic layout system where node positions are not fixed but can be automatically recalculated when nodes are added or removed. The system adapts the tree structure in real-time by重新 positioning nodes along quadratic curves and adjusting spacing, allowing the tree to dynamically respond to changes in data without manual reconfiguration.
2Productivity
If manual drag and place method is used, then nodes can be positioned to resemble tree shape, but user time and effort increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical drag-and-drop operation with an automated computational system. The layout engine uses algorithms to calculate node positions, generate quadratic curves for positioning, and automatically space nodes according to tree structure rules, substituting manual user actions with automated computational processes that generate tree charts instantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary automated calculations to determine optimal node positions before the user even interacts with the interface. When genealogical data is input, the system pre-calculates the entire tree layout, including node positioning along quadratic curves and spacing adjustments, so that the tree chart is ready for display without requiring any manual positioning time from the user.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed rectangular areas are used for data positioning, then layout is simple, but the system cannot accommodate non-constrained amount of data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter-driven positioning where node coordinates are dynamically calculated based on multiple parameters including generation level, node index within generation, parent node position, and spacing factors. The system changes positioning parameters automatically according to the amount and structure of data, allowing flexible accommodation of any data quantity while maintaining tree structure through algorithmic parameter adjustment rather than fixed layouts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from fixed 2D rectangular positioning to a curved spatial arrangement using quadratic curves. Nodes are positioned along parabolic trajectories rather than rigid grid positions, adding a dimensional aspect to the layout that allows flexible data accommodation. This curved positioning system enables the tree to expand and contract naturally with varying data amounts while maintaining aesthetic and structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices and systems are described for implementing a method for positioning a non-constrained amount of data in semblance of a tree. The method includes receiving genealogical data including nodes and generating a directed graph of the nodes of the genealogical data. The directed graph is to maintain parent-child relationships among the nodes and to maintain generations. The genealogical data includes a root node. The method includes moving the nodes along the horizontal axis such that each node is in an equal spacing with respect to each node's parent node, determining a number of generations in the genealogical chart, and generating a number of quadratic curves equal to the number of generations. The apex of the quadratic curves is the position of the tree's trunk. The method includes dropping the nodes in the Y-axis along the curve of the quadratic curves. Each generation is in line with the quadratic curve.