Method and apparatus for a data funnel interface with adjustable paths

Abstract

A data funnel interface with adjustable paths guides end-users to information in a relational table. The interface consists of one or more categories of user data derived from the set of user attributes in the database table. Each category of user data consists of human readable data in the table that conveys values relevant to the end-user. Selecting a data item from one category establishes a logical relationship with the next set of data in an unselected category. The end-user has random access to the categories of data and he or she is always free to choose a data item that either builds on an existing pathway or starts a new one. In the interface, alongside each category is a visual cue that indicates the status of an end-user’s data selection. Upon selecting a data item from each category in the interface, the system displays a Continue button to transfer the control to a window object that displays table information. The interface and its updated display of categories of data is generated automatically.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.