Document Search Interface Segmentation for Navigation Complexity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing search technologies face difficulties in efficiently categorizing and navigating large numbers of matching documents, leading to complex and user-unfriendly interfaces when presenting search results.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced that displays a first subset of document attributes responsive to restrictions, allowing users to select graphical user interface elements, receive keyword search queries, and display a second subset of attributes based on the selection, with options for breadcrumb navigation, prioritization, and access control, enabling flexible and efficient navigation through virtual taxonomies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Quantity of substance

If all matching documents are displayed in response to a search query, then the completeness of search results is improved, but the complexity of document navigation and categorization increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of displayed documentsVSAvoidnavigation interface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the large set of matching documents into multiple subsets based on different attributes (e.g., document type, date, author). Each subset is displayed separately with its own graphical user interface element, allowing users to navigate through organized groups rather than a single overwhelming list. This segmentation reduces navigation complexity while maintaining access to all documents.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces attribute-based dimensions for organizing documents. Instead of a single linear list, documents are categorized along multiple attribute dimensions (type, date, author, etc.), creating a multi-dimensional navigation space. Users can traverse documents by selecting different attribute values, effectively adding organizational dimensions that reduce perceived complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If documents are categorized by multiple attributes simultaneously, then the precision of document classification is improved, but the complexity of combinatorial arrangements increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedocument classification precisionVSAvoidcombinatorial arrangement complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by creating separate attribute dimensions for classification (type, date, author, etc.) rather than using complex multi-attribute tags on each document. Each attribute is handled independently as a separate filtering and sorting dimension, which simplifies the combinatorial complexity while maintaining precise classification capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic attribute selection where the system adapts to user preferences and document characteristics. Attributes are not fixed but can be dynamically added, removed, or reordered based on the specific document set and user interactions. This dynamic approach allows precise classification without committing to a rigid complex structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a fixed taxonomy structure is used for document organization, then the ease of navigation is improved, but the adaptability to different document types and queries decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenavigation easeVSAvoidtaxonomy adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic taxonomy system where the document organization structure adapts based on the specific query, document set, and user preferences. Attributes and their hierarchies are not fixed but can be dynamically generated and modified. This allows the system to maintain simple, intuitive navigation for each specific context while being highly adaptable across different document types and search scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal attribute-based framework that can handle multiple document types and classification needs through a single flexible system. The same attribute mechanism serves multiple purposes: filtering, sorting, grouping, and navigating documents across different contexts. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate fixed taxonomies for different document types while maintaining ease of navigation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS7895233B2Selectively searching restricted documents
Publication Date: 2011.02.22 SAP SE
  • US7895233B2 patent drawing
  • US7895233B2 patent drawing
  • US7895233B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A first subset of attributes of documents responsive to at least one restriction may be displayed. Thereafter, a selection of a graphical user interface element associated with one of the attribute in the first subset may be received resulting in a display of a window comprising an alphanumeric input element. A key word search query may be received in the input element so that a second subset of attributes of documents responsive to the at least one restriction, the attribute associated with the selected graphical user interface element, and the key word search query may be displayed. Related methods, apparatuses, computer program products, and computer systems are also described.