Data Visualization Device and Method

Abstract

A data visualization device comprises a focal attribute calculator for calculating a focal value of each of a plurality of data input items, and for categorizing each of the plurality of data input items as either non-cluster blobs or second blobs. The device further comprises a clustering attribute calculator for clustering data input items categorized as second blobs into one or more cluster blobs, and a visualization shaper for arranging the one or more cluster blobs and the non-cluster blobs, relative to each other in accordance with the focal values of the data input items of respective blobs.

1 - 19 . (canceled) 
   
   
       20 . A method of generating a data visualization of a plurality of data input items, the method comprising the steps of:
 calculating a focal value of each of the plurality of data input items;   categorizing each of the plurality of data input items as non-cluster blobs or second blobs;   clustering the data input items categorized as second blobs into one or more cluster blobs; and   arranging the one or more cluster blobs and the non-cluster blobs, relative to each other in accordance with the focal values of the data input items of the respective blobs,   wherein the cluster blobs and the non-cluster blobs are arranged either in regions designated as focal regions or regions designated as non-focal regions, in accordance with the focal values of the data input items of the respective blobs,   wherein the regions designated as focal region represents a range of focal values, and a blob is laid out in the focal region if the focal value of a data item of the blob is within the range represented by the focal region,   wherein the focal values are calculated to be equal to an attribute of the plurality of data items   wherein the focal values are calculated from a function involving at least one attribute of the plurality of data input items,   wherein categorizing of the plurality of data input items is based on the calculated focal   values, and   wherein the step of arranging the non-cluster blobs and the cluster blobs further includes the steps of:
 determining sizes for each of the cluster and non-cluster blobs; 
 determining shapes for each of the cluster and non-cluster blobs; and calculating a size of a focal region, 
   wherein the determination of the sizes for each of the cluster and non-cluster blobs is in accordance with an attribute of a data item of each blob; and the determination of the shapes for each of the cluster and non-cluster blobs is in accordance with an attribute of a data item of each blob, and   wherein the size of the focal region is calculated based on characteristics of a presentation device to which the visualization is output.   
   
   
       21 - 30 . (canceled)