Continuum-Based Product Selection Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers face difficulties in quickly and efficiently obtaining and evaluating product or service information due to the limitations of binary search terms and the need for repetitive searching, which can be time-consuming and unsatisfactory.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of continuum-based inputs and variable-sized visual representations to facilitate product choice selection, allowing users to input preferences through sliders and other interactive elements, and presenting relevant product choices based on user interest levels, location, ratings, and saved preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If binary search terms are used for product search, then search queries can be submitted, but the search results require repetitive searching and significant time investment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the binary search parameter (yes/no, on/off) into a continuous spectrum parameter (slider position from 0 to 100). This allows users to express nuanced preferences (e.g., 70% interested in feature A, 30% in feature B) rather than forced binary choices, thereby reducing repetitive searching and improving search efficiency while minimizing time loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic, adjustable sliders that allow users to continuously modify their preference levels during the search process. This dynamic interface replaces static binary checkboxes, enabling users to quickly adjust and refine their search criteria without repetitive searching, thus improving productivity and reducing time investment.
2Measurement precision
If detailed product information is provided to help consumers evaluate products, then product selection accuracy improves, but the complexity of information presentation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by presenting different levels of information detail in different interface areas. The slider interface provides a simplified, intuitive control layer for primary preferences, while detailed product attributes and information are available in separate, organized sections. This allows accurate product selection through precise slider adjustments without overwhelming the user with complex information presentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments product information into distinct categories (e.g., price, features, specifications) that can be independently adjusted via separate sliders. This segmentation allows users to focus on specific attributes that matter most to them, improving selection accuracy while maintaining a clean, organized interface that avoids presenting all information complexity at once.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional checkbox or radio button selections are used, then user preferences can be captured, but the ability to capture nuance of consumer desire is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter type from discrete (checkbox/radio button states of 0 or 1) to continuous (slider positions from 0 to 100). This enables the system to capture nuanced consumer preferences (e.g., 65% interest in a feature) while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive drag-slider interaction. The continuous parameter better adapts to the spectrum of human preference without complicating the user interface.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and computer program products for facilitating searching, obtaining and displaying product choice recommendations using inputs, including continuum-based inputs, and variable-sized visual representations are disclosed. In an embodiment, a user is presented with at least one continuum-based selector and at least one product choice visual representation. At least one input indicating user interest value in a product attribute is received and compared with stored result values of product choices. A unique weighing value indicating the relevancy of the product choice is generated for each product based on the comparison performed. The user is then presented with at least one product choice visual representation which may be modified based on the unique weighing value of the product choice.