Cherry Picking Search Terms for Contextual Refinement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current search technologies often return unfocused results due to broad search terms, and existing methods for refining searches, such as pre-defined sub-topics and algorithms, can be limited in their ability to provide relevant options, especially when display space is constrained or when users seek unique combinations of terms.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allows users to select search terms directly from the search results themselves, without relying on pre-defined categories, by identifying and clicking on terms in the text, enabling the construction of unique search strings and preserving context, including phrases and multi-part names.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pre-defined sub-topics and algorithms are used to reduce hit lists, then search results can be organized and displayed, but the ability to provide relevant options is limited and display space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts search terms directly from the search results themselves rather than using pre-defined categories. Users can click on any term in the search results to use it as a search modifier, allowing the system to adapt to user needs dynamically without being constrained by predetermined taxonomies.
Solution Approach 2:
The search system serves itself by automatically generating searchable terms from the search results. When a user clicks on a term, the system automatically updates the search query without requiring manual input, making the refinement process intuitive and efficient.
2Ease of operation
If pre-defined sub-topics are displayed to reduce hits, then search results can be categorized, but display space is consumed and users must page back and forth to see all choices
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of presenting all sub-topics in a single organized list that consumes display space, the patent segments the search results into individual clickable terms scattered throughout the result list. Each term acts as an independent, self-contained search modifier, eliminating the need for dedicated display space for category listings.
3Area of stationary object
If search engines control the number of sub-topics displayed by showing only the most popular ones, then display space is saved, but unique combinations of terms are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of the search engine selecting and displaying popular terms for users to choose from, the patent inverts the approach by allowing users to select any term from the search results, including obscure or less popular terms. This inversion of the selection process eliminates the limitation on term combinations while maintaining efficient use of display space.
4Measurement precision
If users manually type words to modify searches, then precise control over search terms is achieved, but the process is slow and typographical errors occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent copies terms directly from the search results into the search query by allowing users to click on terms in the results. This copying mechanism eliminates the need for manual typing, reducing the time required for search refinement while maintaining precision by using the exact terms already present in the results.
Data Source
AI summary
In an electronic presentation of information, search is made easier and more personal by identifying words, symbols or images (collectively called terms) in text and allowing users to select any of those terms to refine their search. The technology is called “cherry picking” because it allows each user to select what they judge to be the best terms among many available terms in the text, and use those terms to their own advantage. Terms in text are identified by a visual indicator such as a change in the shape of the cursor. “Stop words,” words that do not change the outcome of the search, and words that meet other specific criteria are not selectable.