Visual Landmarks for Diagram Organization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Creating and maintaining organized diagrams using free form canvases is labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially for larger or more complex diagrams, due to the need for manual adjustments of shape positions and connections, which can lead to disorganization and ripple effects, and existing auto-layout algorithms are prescriptive and lack customizability.
Innovation Solution
The use of visual landmarks with configurable properties to automatically position and organize visual elements within diagrams, allowing users to customize and store new landmarks for specific organizational needs, providing flexible and structured layout options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a free form canvas is used to allow complete user control over shape organization, then flexibility and user control are improved, but the labor intensity and time required for manual adjustments increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing predefined organizational templates and auto-layout algorithms that automatically arrange shapes according to established patterns before the user needs to make manual adjustments. This prepares the diagram structure in advance, reducing the time required for organization while maintaining flexibility through customizable parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements self-service through auto-layout algorithms that automatically detect when shapes need reorganization and perform the adjustments without user intervention. The system monitors diagram changes and autonomously repositions elements to maintain proper organization, freeing the user from repetitive manual adjustment tasks while preserving creative control.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual adjustments are made to individual shape positions and connections, then precise control over diagram organization is achieved, but the complexity and effort required increases especially for larger diagrams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the diagram into organized groups or clusters of related shapes that can be managed as units. This allows users to control complexity by working with logical groupings rather than individual elements, while maintaining precise positioning control within each group through template-based constraints and snap-to-grid functionality.
3Productivity
If auto-layout algorithms are used to automatically arrange shapes, then time and effort for manual organization are reduced, but the algorithms are prescriptive and lack customizability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making auto-layout algorithms adaptive and configurable rather than fixed and prescriptive. Users can adjust algorithm parameters, select different organizational strategies, and modify behavior based on diagram type and requirements. This allows the system to maintain high productivity through automation while adapting to diverse customization needs through flexible parameter control and multiple algorithm options.
4Loss of information
If a user individually adjusts each shape and connection for proper spacing and alignment, then the diagram meaning is accurately conveyed, but the task becomes tedious and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing real-time monitoring of diagram organization quality and automatic detection when shapes or connections become misaligned. The system provides visual feedback about organizational status and automatically triggers reorganization actions when degradation is detected, ensuring diagram meaning is maintained without requiring continuous manual inspection and adjustment by the user.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for using visual landmarks to organize diagrams. Embodiments of the invention facilitate using visual landmarks to organize elements within a diagram. Elements of a diagram can be arranged in accordance with configurable defined properties of visual landmarks to provide some degree of layout structure within the diagram. Accordingly, embodiments of the invention provide a user experience that provides some structure but retains the flexibility of free form editing. Users can customize visual landmarks to cause the visual landmarks to exhibit desired behavior.