Context-Aware Search Module in Host Applications
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile search experiences are inefficient due to the need for users to switch between applications, lack of context-aware search results, and the time-consuming process of copying and pasting data between search and host applications.
Innovation Solution
An integrated search module within a host application that fetches and processes context-aware search results, allowing users to select and interact with results directly within the host application, reducing the need for context switching and improving accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standalone search application is used on mobile devices, then users can access search functionality, but users need to switch between applications which is costly and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the search module directly within the host application, merging two previously separate functions (host application and search application) into a single unified interface. This eliminates the need for users to switch between applications, as the search functionality is now embedded within the context of the host application, thereby reducing context switching time while maintaining search accessibility.
2Loss of information
If browsing-based search is used with hyperlinked webpages, then users can access detailed information, but users have to navigate back and forth to find desired results
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring users to click through hyperlinked webpages and navigate back and forth, the patent inverts the approach by presenting structured search results directly within the host application context. The search module returns results that are already formatted and contextualized, allowing users to find desired information without the traditional browsing navigation cycle, thus reducing navigation time while maintaining result accessibility.
3Loss of information
If manual copy-and-paste operations are required between search and host applications, then users can transfer search results, but this process is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data transfer step from the search process by having the search module directly return results to the host application through integrated communication channels. Instead of requiring users to manually copy and paste data between separate applications, the system automatically transfers the search results back to the host application context, eliminating the time-consuming manual data transfer process while maintaining full data transfer capability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If search has no assumption or knowledge of user context, then search engine can handle any query, but returned search results are frequently inaccurate or irrelevant
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the search module receives contextual information from the host application about the user's current task and state. This feedback loop allows the search engine to adjust its results based on the specific context, improving accuracy while maintaining the ability to handle diverse queries. The system continuously refines search results based on contextual feedback from the host application environment.
5Measurement precision
If users are required to correct and disambiguate search results, then accurate results can be obtained, but this process is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the search module pre-process and contextualize search results before presenting them to the user. Based on the host application context, the search module anticipates what information the user needs and pre-filters or pre-formats results to reduce the need for user correction and disambiguation. This preliminary processing reduces the time users spend correcting results while maintaining high accuracy through context-aware filtering.
Data Source
AI summary
Method, system, and programs for content search are disclosed. A user interface configured based on context information is presented within a host application. A plurality of selectable search results are then fetched based on the context information and a query received from a user through the user interface. An input associated with a selection of one or more selectable search results is received from the user through the user interface. The user interface is updated based on the plurality of selectable search results. In response to the selection, the one or more selected search results are provided to the host application with the context information.