| 摘要 |
<p>A large collection of data is represented as a hierarchy of two-dimensional maps displayed on a computer monitor. The collection of data is used to generate an incidence matrix, representing interrelationships among elements of the data. The incidence matrix is then used to construct a hierarchy of planar graphs. Each graph is converted into a two-dimensional map which shows conventional geographical features, these geographical features being used to represent symbolically various aspects of the data. The user of the system sees a large-scale map, preferably having the form of a globe, which represents the entire data collection. By expanding more detailed portions of the large-scale map, the user gains access to a plurality of lower-level maps which represent more detailed information about the collection of data. At the lowest level of the hierarchy, the user may see a simple graph which shows the interrelationships among data elements in the data collection, and which allows the user to access basic data elements directly. The invention therefore permits the user to analyze a large data collection, and/or to study large systems, in a manner not possible by viewing data in a conventional way.</p> |
